Congress Could Block Trump’s Bid for Greenland – But Only If Republicans Join Democrats

President Donald Trump’s renewed push to acquire Greenland has sparked an unusual split among Republicans in Congress, raising questions about whether lawmakers would join Democrats to stop a takeover that many say would breach both US and international law.

The debate has intensified amid growing concern over Trump’s increasing use of military force and coercive diplomacy abroad, particularly in places like Venezuela and Iran. While Republican leaders have broadly supported Trump’s foreign policy, some are now openly warning that a move on Greenland could destabilize Nato and damage long-standing alliances.

Republicans Turn Against the Idea of Buying or Seizing Greenland

In recent days, several senior Republicans have distanced themselves from the idea of buying Greenland or using military force to seize it. Many argue that the island — self-governed but under Danish control — is not for sale, and that any attempt to acquire it would be a major diplomatic misstep.

Senator Lisa Murkowski, co-chair of the Senate Arctic Caucus, called Greenland’s sovereignty “non-negotiable,” while Senator Thom Tillis criticised Trump’s proposed tariffs on countries that refuse to back the acquisition, warning the move could divide Nato and benefit adversaries like Russia and China.

“This would be bad for America, bad for American businesses, and bad for America’s allies,” Tillis said.

Trump Says Greenland Is Key to National Security

Trump has argued the US must control Greenland to compete with China and Russia in the Arctic, insisting the territory is essential for “national security and even world security.”

Asked by the BBC whether he would risk the collapse of Nato over Greenland, Trump appeared unfazed, repeating that the US needs the island “one way or another.”

Congress Has Power to Stop It — But Only If It Acts

Experts say Congress could theoretically block Trump by refusing to approve funds for the purchase. The president would need a congressional appropriation to buy Greenland, and it is unlikely the administration could redirect existing funds for that purpose.

“If Trump wants to buy Greenland, it would require an act of Congress to provide the funds to do so,” said Daniel Schuman, executive director of the American Governance Institute.

However, the White House has increasingly relied on executive authority to push controversial policies, especially on tariffs and immigration. Critics fear the administration could attempt to justify a seizure under some newly claimed power — bypassing Congress entirely.

A Growing Pushback Against Unilateral Military Action

Lawmakers concerned about the prospect of military action in Greenland have supported measures requiring congressional approval before any US action. But it remains unclear whether such measures could secure enough Republican support to pass.

A similar effort to restrict Trump’s military action in Venezuela failed in the Senate earlier this month, but it highlighted growing frustration across party lines with the president’s unilateral use of force — even among some Republicans who campaigned on reducing foreign entanglements.

A bipartisan congressional delegation recently visited Denmark in a symbolic display of support for Greenland’s sovereignty, underscoring how sensitive the issue has become.