Greenland 'Will Stay Greenland', Former Trump Adviser Asserts

Jan 20, 2026, 2:40 AM

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Gary Cohn, a former top economic adviser to Donald Trump, has made it clear that Greenland will not change ownership, stating emphatically, "Greenland will stay Greenland." His comments come amid rising tensions regarding US interests in the territory, which is a semi-autonomous part of Denmark.

Cohn, who served as the director of the White House National Economic Council, linked the US interest in Greenland to its vast untapped resources, particularly rare earth minerals critical for technology and defense. He warned that any attempt to invade an independent country, especially one that is part of NATO, would be "over the edge." This statement reflects a growing concern among business and political leaders about the implications of aggressive US rhetoric regarding Greenland.

During a recent meeting with a US congressional delegation, Cohn noted a "uniform consensus" among lawmakers from both parties that Greenland's status should remain unchanged. He suggested that while Greenland might welcome an increased US military presence, the idea of invasion is unacceptable. Cohn's remarks come as Trump has been vocal about the strategic importance of Greenland, particularly in light of its resources and location between North America and Russia.

The geopolitical landscape surrounding Greenland has become increasingly complex. European leaders, including those from the UK, France, and Germany, have rallied in support of Denmark, asserting that Greenland belongs to its people and should not be subject to US claims. Danish Prime Minister Mette Frederiksen has warned that any military action against Greenland would jeopardize NATO's integrity, stating, "If the United States chooses to attack another NATO country militarily, then everything stops.".

Cohn's insights also touch on the potential for negotiation regarding Greenland's resources. He indicated that the US could pursue an "offtake" agreement to access Greenland's mineral wealth without resorting to military action. This approach aligns with broader US interests in securing critical minerals for technological advancements, particularly in artificial intelligence and quantum computing.

Despite the US administration's aggressive posturing, Cohn emphasized the importance of diplomatic engagement over military threats. He acknowledged that Trump's negotiating style often involves overstating demands to achieve desired outcomes, suggesting that the current rhetoric may be part of a larger strategy to enhance US military presence in the Arctic.

The situation has raised alarms not only in Denmark but also among NATO allies, who fear that US actions could provoke a response from Russia and China, both of which have shown increasing interest in the Arctic region. The potential for conflict over Greenland's resources and strategic location underscores the need for careful diplomatic navigation.

In conclusion, while Cohn's statements provide some reassurance regarding Greenland's future, the ongoing discussions about its resources and strategic importance highlight the delicate balance of power in the Arctic. As the US continues to assert its interests, the emphasis on maintaining Greenland's autonomy remains a critical point of contention in international relations.

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