Donald Trump’s actions since returning to the White House have unsettled Europe, forcing allies to confront a scenario once considered unthinkable. The United States, the cornerstone of NATO’s collective defense, is openly considering ways to take control of Greenland, an autonomous territory of its fellow alliance member, Denmark.
U.S. officials say the president is exploring a range of options, from purchase talks to more coercive measures. While Secretary of State Marco Rubio has sought to ease concerns by stressing diplomacy, Danish Prime Minister Mette Frederiksen has warned that any U.S. attack on a NATO ally would undermine the alliance itself. Her alarm is widely shared across Europe, even as most leaders avoid public confrontation.
That caution reflects a hard reality. Europe remains heavily dependent on U.S. military power and diplomacy, particularly as it works to counter Russia and support Ukraine. Trump’s renewed focus on Greenland has left European capitals walking a tightrope: resisting pressure on Denmark without jeopardizing Washington’s role in Ukraine’s security.
The tension was evident at the so-called Coalition of the Willing, where officials from 35 countries discussed postwar security guarantees for Ukraine. Questions about Greenland lingered, but leaders from Britain and France sidestepped direct criticism of the United States, wary of alienating a crucial partner.
Analysts say Europe lacks leverage to take a tougher stance after decades of relying on Washington for defense. Rearmament will take years, and the continent still depends on U.S. weapons. Some argue Europe could gradually apply pressure through economic, political, or technological means rather than a military standoff.
U.S. public opinion appears overwhelmingly opposed to using force to take Greenland. Still, European officials fear Trump is serious this time. For now, Europe’s strategy is to buy time, working with an unpredictable ally until it can better defend itself.