Story perspectives

Bipartisan Delegation Visits Amid Trump's Greenland Acquisition Push

1/18/2026

Center

Congressional Delegation Visits

A bipartisan U.S. congressional delegation visited Denmark and Greenland amid U.S. President Donald Trump's push to acquire Greenland.
Danish officials, including Lars Løkke Rasmussen, Denmark's Foreign Minister, said they did not change U.S. stance.
Trump says Greenland is crucial to U.S. security and has not ruled out military action.
Denmark and Greenland oppose a U.S. takeover.
Senators from both parties express concerns and polls show low support for Trump's acquisition.

Right

Murkowski & Shaheen Act

Senators Lisa Murkowski of Alaska and Jeanne Shaheen of New Hampshire introduced the NATO Unity Protection Act to block military actions against Greenland.
They frame the act as preserving NATO unity amid U.S. President Donald Trump’s push for annexation, which could aid Russia or China.
Danish Prime Minister Mette Frederiksen warned a U.S. assault on Greenland would jeopardize NATO.
Greenland’s Prime Minister Jens-Frederik Nielsen said 85% oppose annexation.

History

Historical Context

In 1867, the United States purchased Alaska from Russia for $7.2 million, a move orchestrated by Secretary of State William Seward. Initially criticized as "Seward's Folly," the acquisition later proved valuable due to resource discoveries. This historical expansionism resonates today, as President Trump's interest in Greenland reflects ongoing U.S. territorial ambitions, raising concerns among NATO allies and impacting relations with Russia and China.

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Congressional Delegation Visits

A bipartisan U.S. congressional delegation visited Denmark and Greenland amid U.S. President Donald Trump's push to acquire Greenland.
Danish officials, including Lars Løkke Rasmussen, Denmark's Foreign Minister, said they did not change U.S. stance.
Trump says Greenland is crucial to U.S. security and has not ruled out military action.
Denmark and Greenland oppose a U.S. takeover.
Senators from both parties express concerns and polls show low support for Trump's acquisition.

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