How Trump could take control of Greenland’s capital in half an hour
While seizing Greenland’s capital, Nuuk, may sound like fantasy, there is a “simpler path” that President Donald Trump is already pursuing.
Politico outlined four steps — based on interviews with European officials and leading experts — describing how the United States could come to control Greenland, a process the Trump administration has already begun.
Step 1: An influence campaign to boost Greenlandic independence
From the outset, the administration began speaking about Greenland’s independence, despite it being a semi-autonomous territory within the Kingdom of Denmark.
An independent Greenland could sign agreements directly with the United States, whereas under the current situation, Copenhagen’s approval is required.
A referendum would be needed, followed by negotiations on an agreement to be endorsed by both Nuuk and Copenhagen.
A 2025 poll showed that 56 percent of Greenlanders would vote for independence, while 28 percent would oppose it.
Danish media reported covert influence efforts linked to Trump, and Denmark’s security agency warned that the territory is a target for various influence campaigns.
Last month, Trump created the post of Special Envoy for Greenland and appointed Louisiana Governor Jeff Landry, declaring his goal was “to make Greenland part of the United States.”
Step 2: Making an irresistible offer
If independence efforts succeed, the next step would be to bring Greenland firmly under U.S. influence.
One proposal raised repeatedly by Trump allies is full U.S. statehood — though Danish officials insist Washington has no right to annex the territory.
However, most Greenlanders oppose joining the United States, including many pro-independence activists.
Another idea involves a Compact of Free Association, similar to U.S. arrangements with Micronesia, the Marshall Islands and Palau, granting protection and economic benefits in exchange for extensive military access.
Step 3: Winning Europe’s support
Europe — especially Denmark’s EU partners — would likely resist. But Ukraine could provide leverage, with European governments seeking stronger American security guarantees in exchange for accepting a broader U.S. role in Greenland.
Step 4: Military seizure
If both Denmark and Greenland refused, Politico notes that the United States could theoretically seize the territory militarily with limited resistance.
Analysts warn that U.S. forces already present in the region, combined with Greenland’s limited defenses, could allow Washington to assert control over Nuuk “in half an hour or less.”
