Spanish Prime Minister Pedro Sanchez stated on January 18, 2026, that a US invasion of Greenland would make Vladimir Putin "the happiest man on earth," as it would undermine NATO and legitimize Russia's Ukraine invasion. In a La Vanguardia interview, Sanchez called such action NATO's "death knell," amid President Donald Trump's aggressive campaign to acquire the Danish autonomous territory. Trump's rhetoric, including threats of force, has sparked fears of alliance fractures.

Tariff War Looms

Trump announced January 17 via Truth Social 10% tariffs starting February 1 on imports from Denmark, Norway, Sweden, France, Germany, Netherlands, Finland, and UK, rising to 25% by June 1 until a Greenland deal. Leaders like Macron labeled it "unacceptable," Starmer "completely wrong," with EU planning coordinated retaliation. These target allies deploying troops to Greenland, risking trade pacts.

Massive Protests Sweep Region

Thousands rallied in Nuuk and Copenhagen January 17-18, the largest in Greenland history, chanting "Greenland is not for sale" near the US consulate despite cold weather. Protests spread to Danish cities like Aarhus; organizers urged global awakening to sovereignty threats. They coincided with a US Congressional visit, amplifying anti-takeover sentiment.

NATO Military Response

Denmark's Operation Arctic Endurance expanded January 13 with NATO allies' troops for exercises, including F-35 patrols and infrastructure defense against Arctic threats. Participants from Germany, France, Sweden, Norway, UK, Netherlands bolster presence amid tensions. Danish officials stress security enhancements, not provocation. 

Broader Implications

Greenland's minerals, strategic Arctic location fuel US interests versus Russia/China; Trump insists on full ownership. Denmark-Greenland reject sale; a US-Denmark group formed but stalled. As of January 18, 2026, risks to NATO cohesion and trade grow, with no resolution in sight.