‘Action Within Weeks Or Months’: Trump Aide Says US Eyes Rapid Move On Greenland

Last Updated:January 13, 2026, 23:45 IST

Thomas Dans said there could soon be visible progress on negotiations or a deal related to Greenland, even if a final outcome takes longer to complete.

US President Donald Trump (Image Credit: Reuters)

US President Donald Trump’s push to take control of Greenland is moving toward a decisive phase, with “meaningful US action" possible within weeks or months, according to a senior administration official closely involved in the effort. Thomas Dans, Trump’s Arctic commissioner and one of the main architects of the Greenland strategy, told USA Today that the plan to annex or otherwise acquire the Arctic island will not be abandoned and could advance faster than many expect.

“This is a train route with multiple stops," Thomas Dans said, adding, “Things could move on an express basis, skip the local stops and go direct to the main station. That’s where President Trump wants to move it- at high speed."

What Action Could Come ‘Within Weeks Or Months’?

Thomas Dans said there could soon be visible progress on negotiations or a deal related to Greenland, even if a final outcome takes longer to complete. While he acknowledged that formally acquiring the island would be a lengthy process, he stressed that the Donald Trump administration is determined to move ahead. He added that Donald Trump’s interest in Greenland- first raised during his initial term- has intensified, with the US President unwilling to accept the status quo.

“He’s not backing down," Thomas Dans said, adding that discussions inside the administration remain active.

Why Does Donald Trump Want Greenland?

Donald Trump has repeatedly argued that the US needs Greenland for national security reasons, citing concerns about Russian and Chinese influence in the Arctic. He has claimed the island’s strategic location is critical for missile early-warning systems and monitoring naval activity. Greenland, part of the Kingdom of Denmark, already hosts a US military presence at the Pituffik Space Base, where more than 100 US personnel are permanently stationed. Existing agreements with Denmark allow Washington to deploy additional forces if required but Donald Trump has said those arrangements are insufficient.

Is Military Force Being Considered By US?

Donald Trump refused to rule out the use of military force, though Thomas Dans said fears of a US invasion were misplaced.

“Only those who live in a state of ignorance should be alarmed about a US invasion of Greenland," he said, adding, “You can’t invade when you’re already there," referring to the existing US security footprint on the island.

How Could US Try To Acquire Greenland?

Thomas Dans said Donald Trump’s preferred option is to buy Greenland outright or gain control through diplomatic means. One proposal involves offering Greenlanders direct lump-sum payments- potentially between $10,000 and $100,000 per person- to accelerate an independence movement from Denmark. An independent Greenland could then enter into a Compact of Free Association with the US, under which Washington would provide exclusive security guarantees.

Another idea discussed is leasing Greenland for an extended period, similar to Britain’s former 99-year lease of Hong Kong. Donald Trump, however, has recently dismissed leasing arrangements, saying ownership is essential.

News world ‘Action Within Weeks Or Months’: Trump Aide Says US Eyes Rapid Move On Greenland

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