January 16, 2026


Republicans Rally to Challenge Trump's Greenland Acquisition Plans

In a striking divergence from President Donald Trump's aggressive stance on Greenland, numerous Republican lawmakers are voicing their opposition, signaling a rare break within the party. As Trump hints at annexing the Danish territory "by any means necessary," concerns are growing not only among international allies but also within his own party.

Members of Congress, including prominent Republicans, are escalating their warnings against the idea of a military intervention in Greenland. Senator Thom Tillis (R-N.C.) has asserted that bipartisan support would be readily mobilized against any unauthorized military actions, suggesting a war powers resolution could even override a presidential veto if necessary.

Trump's fixation on Greenland has been met with disbelief and stern rebukes from within his party. Representative Don Bacon (R-Neb.) went as far as to call the idea "the dumbest thing I’ve ever heard," and warned it could lead to impeachment proceedings.

In a proactive step, a bipartisan delegation is set to visit Copenhagen to reassure Denmark and other allies that Congress does not support military action against Greenland. Senate Majority Leader John Thune, although not part of the delegation, expressed a similar sentiment, emphasizing the lack of congressional appetite for any military options.

This internal GOP turmoil comes on the heels of Trump's controversial military operation to oust Venezuelan President Nicolás Maduro, which already strained party unity. Despite some initial support for Trump's actions in Venezuela, the prospect of similar tactics being used against Greenland — a sovereign territory of a NATO ally — appears to be a bridge too far for many Republicans.

Senator Mitch McConnell, former Republican leader, criticized the notion of military action against Greenland as potentially disastrous for NATO relations. Meanwhile, other Republicans like Representative Jeff Hurd (R-Colo.) and Senator Lisa Murkowski (R-Alaska) have voiced their concerns openly, with Murkowski co-sponsoring legislation to reinforce U.S. respect for Greenland's sovereignty.

Democrats, sensing a shift in Republican sentiment, are preparing a slew of war powers resolutions, including one specifically addressing Greenland. While Senator Tim Kaine (D-Va.) remains skeptical about garnering enough GOP support to pass such measures, the growing Republican disquiet offers a glimmer of hope for bipartisan opposition to Trump's bolder foreign policy maneuvers.

As the situation develops, the world watches closely to see if internal U.S. political dynamics might steer the Trump administration away from a potential international crisis over Greenland. With key Republicans and Democrats aligning against the use of force, the stage is set for a significant congressional showdown.