Greenland Gambit: Trust on Thin Ice in NATO
Today, January 20, 2026, marks the first anniversary of Donald Trump’s return to the U.S. presidency. Over the past year, his “America First” playbook has shaken the transatlantic alliance—but none of his moves has been more disruptive than the Greenland gambit.
From public talks of buying the island to hints at military intervention, plus the use of tariffs to pressure European allies, the U.S. has thrown Arctic cooperation into turmoil. Here’s why this matters: 🌍❄️
1. Arctic Governance on Thin Ice
For decades, bodies like the Arctic Council relied on consensus-based cooperation. The U.S.’s hardline tactics risk turning the region into a new arena of great power rivalry.
2. Power Politics vs. International Law
By invoking “national security” to coerce a NATO ally, the U.S. sets a dangerous precedent—suggesting might makes right and undercutting the UN Charter’s core principles on sovereignty.
3. A Trust Deficit in NATO
Challenging an ally’s sovereignty damages the foundation of collective defense. European capitals are now reconsidering their reliance on U.S. leadership and exploring paths to strategic autonomy.
And Greenland is just the tip of the iceberg. The Trump administration also conducted direct ceasefire talks with Russia over Ukraine—sidestepping allies—imposed 25% tariffs on European steel and aluminum, and demanded NATO members ramp up defense spending to 5% of GDP. 🚀💥
Despite deep frustration, a full split seems unlikely. The ongoing conflict in Ukraine, Europe’s fiscal limits, and right-leaning governments in countries like Italy and Hungary act as anchors, keeping the alliance intact—for now.
As the Arctic takes center stage in global geopolitics, the Greenland gambit shows how unilateral moves can send shockwaves across alliances. Can trust be rebuilt when a partner’s sovereignty ends up on the negotiating table? 🤔
Reference(s):
U.S. ambition for Greenland deepens transatlantic trust deficit
cgtn.com
