Trump Greenland Policy Reversal 2026: From Military Threats to Davos Diplomacy

The fist has opened, and the hand is extended—for now. Donald Trump has abruptly retreated from his threats to use force or economic sanctions to acquire Greenland. During the 56th annual World Economic Forum in Davos on January 21, 2026, the President ruled out military options, capping weeks of diplomatic chaos that rattled U.S. allies across Europe.

The 2026 Trump Greenland Policy Reversal: A Shift in Strategy

This reversal includes the cancellation of tariffs previously set for February 1. Instead of aggressive annexation, Trump revealed that he and NATO Secretary General Mark Rutte have "formed the framework of a future deal" concerning the Arctic region. This sudden pivot suggests the administration is moving toward a negotiated influence rather than a forced takeover, despite the President's long-standing obsession with the island.

Internal Rifts: Hardliners vs. Pragmatists

The policy shift follows a reported power struggle within the White House. While figures like Stephen Miller were willing to keep military annexation on the table, others—including Vice President JD Vance and Secretary of State Marco Rubio—pushed for a middle ground. According to Reuters, most officials urged caution, fearing that a military move against a NATO ally would cause irreversible damage to international relations.

Denmark's Defiant Stance

Leaders in Denmark and Greenland have consistently rejected Trump's overtures. Lars Lokke Rasmussen, Denmark's Foreign Minister, described recent talks as "frank," a diplomatic term often used to signal deep disagreement. The EU has denounced the earlier tariff threats as "blackmail," highlighting the immense pressure the Trump administration faced before the Davos announcement.