WASHINGTON January 20, 2026 — U.S. President Donald Trump has shared a striking image on social media showing himself planting an American flag on Greenland’s terrain, accompanied by a sign declaring “Greenland – US Territory Est. 2026.” The post, which features Trump alongside Vice President JD Vance and another figure widely identified as Senator Marco Rubio, has gone viral and intensified ongoing diplomatic strains over the Arctic island.
The image, depicting the trio in suits against a snowy Greenland landscape, appears to be a digitally created or edited meme emphasizing Trump’s long-standing interest in acquiring the world’s largest island for national security reasons. Trump has repeatedly argued that U.S. control of Greenland is essential to counter potential influence from Russia or China in the Arctic region.
The posting comes on the one-year anniversary of Trump’s second inauguration and coincides with reports of escalating rhetoric from the White House. Earlier today, Trump referenced a “very good” telephone call with NATO Secretary General Mark Rutte regarding Greenland, while European leaders, including UK Prime Minister Keir Starmer, have voiced strong opposition to any U.S. attempts to seize the territory.
Denmark, which administers Greenland as an autonomous territory, has responded by deploying additional troops to the island amid the standoff. Greenlandic officials and Danish Prime Minister have reiterated that the island is not for sale and have warned against any unilateral actions.
Trump has linked his renewed push for Greenland to frustrations over not receiving the Nobel Peace Prize, stating in recent comments that the acquisition would bolster U.S. security interests.
The viral image has sparked mixed reactions online, with supporters viewing it as bold leadership and critics labeling it as provocative showmanship that risks alienating allies. As tensions rise, international observers are closely monitoring developments in what some are calling the “Greenland crisis.”
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