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The Global Story

The Global Story

Will Trump take control of Greenland?

8 January 2026

27 minutes

Available for over a year

After his major military operation in Venezuela, President Trump has escalated his rhetoric about taking control of Greenland. Trump has repeatedly suggested that the Arctic island – which is a semi-autonomous Danish territory - should be part of the US. "We need Greenland from a national security situation”, Trump told reporters recently, “It's so strategic”. In capitals around Europe, leaders are now wondering if Trump might just follow through on his threats.

We speak to journalist Adrienne Murray in Copenhagen to find out how Greenlanders and Danes feel about Trump’s comments, and what any US action on Greenland could mean for the future of Nato and Europe.

Producers: Viv Jones, Aron Keller and Xandra Ellin

Executive producer: Bridget Harney

Mix: Travis Evans

Senior news editor: China Collins

Photo: Danish troops take part in military drills in Greenland. Credit: Guglielmo Mangiapane/ Reuters