Greenland's Future: A Geopolitical Chess Piece Amid Trump’s Grand Strategy

Greenland remains the focus of geopolitical intrigue as former adviser Gary Cohn asserts it “will stay Greenland,” countering the notion that Donald Trump could push for its change in ownership. Speaking at the World Economic Forum in Davos, Cohn, a significant figure in the business world and a former director of the National Economic Council, noted that access to Greenland’s rich reserves of rare earth minerals might be tied to Trump’s intentions.

Cohn emphasized that invading an independent NATO member would likely be viewed as excessive and politically unwise. He suggested that Trump’s comments about Greenland may indeed be a part of a broader negotiation strategy, as he reminded audiences of past successes where Trump has “overreached” to reach compromises. Cohn expressed a consensus within Congress, stating both parties agree on the sovereignty of Greenland.

Adding to the discussion, US Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent urged calm amidst the turmoil that has enveloped Trump’s tariff threats and geopolitical maneuvers related to Greenland. Bessent articulated that the situation has been exaggerated and insisted that nations refrain from escalating tensions against the U.S.

Cohn also posited that the U.S. is eyeing Greenland not just strategically, but as a critical source of minerals necessary for advancements in artificial intelligence (AI) and quantum computing—fields in which he claims IBM is leading. He believes that significant developments in these technologies could enhance U.S. productivity and its position on the global stage.

As global leaders gather in Davos, discussions about AI, quantum, and the significance of Greenland in this context are creating ripples across sectors, further indicating the potential transformational impact of these resources on future technological landscapes.