Pressure is mounting in Greenland as US President Donald Trump continues to push for the autonomous Danish territory to come under American control. In response, residents of Nuuk, the capital city, are stockpiling survival supplies and long-lasting food products, according to local retailers. The surge in demand comes amid growing concerns over possible US interference in the Arctic island.
Trump has been pursuing the goal of bringing Greenland under US control since his first term, citing national security concerns and the need to counter Chinese and Russian influence in the Arctic. However, both Beijing and Moscow have rejected this claim. The situation escalated further last week when Trump threatened to impose additional tariffs on US trading partners in Europe that refuse to back his push to acquire the island.
The US Treasury Secretary, Scott Bessent, has emphasized the importance of Greenland to US defense in the emerging “battle for the Arctic,” stating that European partners will eventually support the idea of handing the island over to Washington. In contrast, shopkeepers in Nuuk report that locals are preparing for the worst, buying camping stoves, long-shelf-life food, and freeze-dried meals.
Greenlanders have expressed strong opposition to any US takeover, describing Trump’s remarks as irrational and threatening. They have confidence in the support of European allies and are not intimidated by the US president’s plans. Recently, several European states, including Germany, France, Sweden, Norway, and the UK, sent personnel to Greenland for a Danish-led military exercise, demonstrating their commitment to the island’s sovereignty.
In response to Trump’s tariff threats, the EU has vowed to defend its economic interests with countermeasures, including a possible revival of a suspended €93 billion retaliatory tariff package. The EU is also considering the use of the Anti-Coercion Instrument (ACI) to punish economic coercion. As tensions continue to rise, the situation in Greenland remains uncertain, with the international community watching closely to see how the situation will unfold. The US pursuit of Greenland has significant implications for global politics, trade, and security, making it a critical issue to monitor in the coming weeks and months.
