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Skarsgård Slams Trump's 'Absurd' Greenland Annexation Push

1/20/2026

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Summary

Story summary

U.S. President Donald Trump faced criticism from Stellan Skarsgård, the actor, who called his push to annex Greenland 'absurd' and a 'little man' with megalomania at the European Film Awards.
Skarsgård tied the move to Trump's Venezuela involvement, suggesting a mineral-resource motive.
Trump's tariff threat against the EU over Greenland drew backlash from Denmark and Greenland, who say the territory is not for sale, with protests in both regions.

History

Historical Context

In 1867, the United States purchased Alaska from Russia for $7.2 million, a deal orchestrated by Secretary of State William H. Seward. Initially criticized as "Seward's Folly," the acquisition later proved valuable due to resource discoveries. Trump's Greenland proposal echoes this historical pursuit of territory, highlighting ongoing tensions over sovereignty and resource exploitation reminiscent of past U.S. expansionist policies.

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Story summary

U.S. President Donald Trump faced criticism from Stellan Skarsgård, the actor, who called his push to annex Greenland 'absurd' and a 'little man' with megalomania at the European Film Awards.
Skarsgård tied the move to Trump's Venezuela involvement, suggesting a mineral-resource motive.
Trump's tariff threat against the EU over Greenland drew backlash from Denmark and Greenland, who say the territory is not for sale, with protests in both regions.

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