Amid U.S. acquisition threats and cash offers, a 1952 directive permits Danish forces in Greenland to counterattack immediately, escalating Arctic tensions.
As former U.S. President Donald Trump revives his pursuit of acquiring Greenland, it has emerged that Danish forces in the territory operate under a decades-old order allowing them to counterattack without awaiting commands if assaulted.
The Danish Ministry of Defence confirmed to Berlingske that a 1952 “custody order” remains in effect, stating that in the event of an attack, military units must “engage in battle without waiting for or seeking orders.” This establishes what amounts to a “shoot first, ask later” protocol, potentially relevant should the U.S. consider military action.
White House Press Secretary Karoline Leavitt recently reiterated that “acquiring Greenland is a national security priority” for Trump, framing it as vital for deterring adversaries in the Arctic. She noted that “utilising the U.S. Military is always an option.”
While Trump has not ruled out military measures, Reuters reports that his administration has also explored financial incentives—offering each Greenlandic citizen between $10,000 and $100,000 to agree to join the United States.
The Trump administration has consistently framed the proposed acquisition as a national security imperative, citing Greenland’s strategic position for missile monitoring and surveillance of Russian and Chinese activity. The mineral-rich territory, roughly six times the size of Germany, also holds significant deposits of uranium, iron, and rare minerals, along with potential oil and gas reserves—though Trump has publicly downplayed resource motives.
In Greenland, residents have expressed deep unease. One citizen told local media, “I don’t want to talk about him [Trump], because he spoils my sleep,” adding that the U.S. “doesn’t respect” her country. Another called Trump “the archetype of greed.”
On social media, reactions have ranged from serious commentary to satirical TikTok videos joking about American fast-food chains and advertisements. Nonetheless, the confirmation of the active military order underscores the gravity with which Denmark views potential threats to its autonomous territory.
Vice President JD Vance has urged European allies to take Trump’s ambitions “seriously,” reflecting the geopolitical stakes in an Arctic region growing more accessible due to climate change.
