The question of a military takeover of Greenland, which Donald Trump recently refused to dismiss, has sparked a stir in the global media.
Politico evaluated the theoretical possibility of such a scenario, noting that while the U.S. could easily defeat Denmark in a military conflict, there is little sense in such a move.
The U.S. Armed Forces, with a defense budget that reached a record $948 billion in 2024, significantly outmatch Denmark, whose defense budget is only $9.9 billion. Additionally, the U.S. military comprises 1.3 million personnel, some of whom are already stationed in Greenland. Therefore, experts point out that if the U.S. were to decide to take over Greenland, it would be "the shortest war in history."
As noted in the publication, Denmark's defense capabilities are, in reality, even weaker than on paper. Earlier reports in the local press mentioned that some Danish Coast Guard ships involved in patrolling Greenland's coastal waters lack the necessary software to operate their onboard weaponry. They simply have not been purchased. Given that the country's military shortcomings are no secret, Denmark and the U.S. signed an agreement in 1951 allowing the American military to use bases in Greenland while also taking on the primary responsibility for the island's defense if necessary.
Regarding Trump's statements about the takeover of Greenland, experts argue that even if the island came under U.S. control, it would not provide Washington with significant advantages. Greenland remains a financially burdensome region for Denmark, with budget subsidies reaching up to $1 billion annually. Furthermore, the U.S. is already getting what it wants. The country has the ability to establish military bases on the island and invest in the extraction of natural resources. Additionally, Denmark has also prohibited a Chinese company from building airports in Greenland.
Source: politico.