WASHINGTON / PARIS — The White House confirmed on January 7, 2026, that discussions about a possible U.S. purchase of Greenland are “active,” even as it reiterated that President Donald Trump remains committed to NATO amid rising diplomatic tensions with European allies.

WASHINGTON / PARIS — The White House confirmed on January 7, 2026, that discussions about a possible U.S. purchase of Greenland are “active,” even as it reiterated that President Donald Trump remains committed to NATO amid rising diplomatic tensions with European allies.

The announcement came at a time of sharp criticism from France’s president, who accused the United States of “turning away from its allies” under the current administration.
Reuters
At a regular press briefing, White House spokeswoman Karoline Leavitt said that Trump’s interest in Greenland stems from its strategic importance in the Arctic region, particularly as the United States seeks to counter Russian and Chinese influence there. Leavitt stressed that while Greenland’s acquisition is under active discussion with national security advisers, diplomacy remains the preferred option. She also affirmed that Trump supports NATO and believes the alliance is a key deterrent against global threats.
Reuters
Greenland is an autonomous territory within the Kingdom of Denmark, a long-standing NATO ally. The idea of a U.S. purchase – or even forceful acquisition – has alarmed European leaders, who see it as a possible breach of international norms and a strain on alliance cohesion. U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio is scheduled to meet Danish officials next week to discuss Washington’s position and reaffirm dialogue on the matter.
AP News
In Paris, French President Emmanuel Macron delivered a forceful critique of U.S. foreign policy under Trump, saying the United States is “gradually turning away from some of its allies” and “breaking free from international rules” that have long underpinned global security cooperation. Speaking to French ambassadors, Macron warned that Washington’s recent actions – including its assertive approach to Greenland and military operations abroad – have shaken European confidence in U.S. leadership and raised questions about the future of multilateral alliances.
EWN
Macron’s remarks reflect broader unease in Europe, where several governments are weighing how to respond should the United States pursue Greenland acquisition. Denmark and other NATO partners have asserted Greenland’s sovereignty belongs to its people and the Danish realm, stressing that any attempt to alter that status without consent would contradict NATO’s foundational principles.
AP News
The diplomatic tension follows a series of assertive U.S. moves, including a high-profile military operation in Venezuela. European leaders, including Germany’s president and foreign ministers from several EU states, have voiced concern that unilateral action by the United States could weaken the post-World War II international order and prompt Europe to consider greater strategic autonomy.