Rubio tells lawmakers: Trump wants to buy Greenland, not take it by military force — Report

January 7, 2026

New Delhi: US Secretary of State Marco Rubio told lawmakers that President Donald Trump wants to acquire Greenland from Denmark “through talks, not military force,” according to a report in the Wall Street Journal.
According to the report, Rubio made these remarks during a closed-door meeting, attempting to allay fears that the Trump administration is preparing military action to take Greenland.

White House: Greenland is essential for national security

The White House has consistently described Greenland as a US “national security priority.” Press Secretary Carolyn Levitt stated that Trump believes control of Greenland is essential to countering Russian and Chinese influence and ensuring access to vital mineral resources. She also stated that the president is considering “many options” to achieve this goal.

Trump himself has stated that the US “needs Greenland for national security.”

Contradictory Statements, Growing Concern in Europe

Although Rubio attempted to downplay fears of military action, statements from other administration leaders suggest otherwise. Trump’s close adviser, Stephen Miller, stated that he would not rule out a military option regarding Greenland.

These statements have raised concerns among European countries and NATO allies. Some NATO members have warned that any US attack on Greenland, a self-governing territory of Denmark, would deal a severe blow to the alliance.

According to the report, European officials have not yet seen any concrete indications of a potential invasion, but concerns remain. Meanwhile, Denmark has proposed expanding the US military presence in Greenland and granting it greater access to mining, while also announcing billions of dollars in spending on Arctic defense infrastructure. According to surveys, most Greenlanders are not in favor of becoming part of the United States.