Finland dismisses fears of US forceful takeover of Greenland
President of Finland Alexander Stubb (Photo: Getty Images)
President of Finland Alexander Stubb said he doubts that the US would seize Greenland by force, states Stubb during a press conference ahead of the Davos forum.
The Finnish leader emphasized that the situation surrounding Greenland is the most challenging moment of his presidential term so far. He also noted that public discussion is not necessarily the best way to “dampen” the debate about the island.
“This is difficult for Finns because it concerns such a close ally as Denmark, and such fundamental issues as territorial integrity, sovereignty, and self-determination,” Stubb stressed.
He also commented on the tariff threats made by US leader Donald Trump. In Stubb’s view, Europe must remain firm in its position.
The President of Finland said that the EU has several instruments at its disposal that could lead to the lifting of US tariffs, but he did not specify which instruments.
Trump’s statements on Greenland
In late 2025, Donald Trump said that control over Greenland is an absolute necessity for US national security.
In early 2026, the US president reiterated this claim, stressing that the island is allegedly surrounded by Russian and Chinese fleets, and that Denmark, in his words, is unable to provide adequate protection.
Later, Trump commented on the island’s defense, saying that it is limited to two dog sleds trying to counter Russian and Chinese destroyers and submarines.
Later, information emerged that the United States could pay up to $700 billion to purchase Greenland. Secretary of State Marco Rubio has already been tasked with preparing an offer.
On Saturday, January 17, Trump stated that starting February 1, Denmark, Norway, Sweden, France, Germany, the UK, the Netherlands, and Finland would pay a 10% tariff on all goods supplied to the US, with the rate rising to 25% from June 1.
According to the US president, the tariffs would remain in place until an agreement is reached on the full and final purchase of Greenland.
In Europe, three plans are being prepared in response to Trump’s claims on the island, one of which assumes that the US leader’s statements about Greenland are a strategic bluff aimed at extracting concessions from Copenhagen.
Today, January 19, the European Council announced the convening of an emergency meeting over Trump’s statements regarding Greenland. The meeting will take place on Thursday, January 22.
