Two things are hitting at once and they're surely related. The first is from an unnamed US official quoted by Reuters but it came simultaneously with a White House statement saying:
- Trump has made clear that acquiring Greenland is a 'national security priority'
- Trump would like to acquire Greenland during his term
- Trump and advisors discussing options including purchasing it from Denmark or forming a compact of free association
- Utilizing the military is always an option
That last one is the real kicker.
What a bizarre saga this is, straight mafia stuff. Anything untoward or violent would certainly force the EU to go from 'strong levels of concern' to actual repercussions, if only on trade.
Tweet from 2019
