Donald Trump has repeatedly threatened to annex Greenland (Image: AFP via Getty Images)
Donald Trump launched a scathing five-word attack on NATO allies as he continues to ramp up threats of invading Greenland.
The firebrand US President once again threatened to annex the Danish territory, adding he did not care if it would bring an end to the defensive alliance. Speaking to reporters aboard Air Force One, Trump answered questions about how invading Greenland could damage relations between the US and its NATO allies.
“If it affects NATO, then it affects NATO,” Then Trump continued with a nine-word attack on the organisation. “They need us much more than we need them.”
The Trump administration has vowed to annex Greenland via purchase or invasion, despite the overwhelming majority of Greenlanders being against joining the US. A January 2025 survey by pollster Verian said only six per cent of people in Greenland wanted to join the US with a majority of 85 per cent wanting either independence or to remain a part of Denmark.
Greenland is home to about 55,000 people (Image: AFP via Getty Images)
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Despite this, Trump said: “Greenland should make the deal because Greenland does not want to see Russia or China take over.” He then falsely claimed Denmark had “two dogsleds” as their defence.”
The president then made clear he viewed US control of the territory as inevitable. He continued: “If we don’t take Greenland, Russia or China will. And I’m not going to let that happen…One way or the other, we’re going to have Greenland.”
Trump then questioned the relevance of NATO and if member states would come to America’s aid if it was ever attacked. He said: ” I like NATO. I just wonder whether or not if needed NATO would they be there for us? I’m not sure they would.”
American Vice President JD Vance toured Greenland last year(Image: AP)
The US President appeared unaware NATO members, including the UK and Denmark, rushed to its defence following the 9/11 attacks in 2001. Article 5, a defensive clause that demands members come to the aid of another when attacked, has been invoked once by the US, leading allies to follow the US into Afghanistan.
Denmark lost 43 soldiers in Afghanistan and was, until 2009, the country with the highest per capita losses out of the entire alliance. Trump’s comments have sent shockwaves across Europe and within the US amid fears the White House could turn against its steadfast allies.
US Secretary of State Marco Rubio said he will hold talks with Danish officials this week to discuss Greenland. European officials, including in the UK, have issued various statements arguing the future of the territory is up to people there and for the Danish government to decide.