Democrats Think War-Powers Resolution on Greenland Could Draw More GOP Support Than Venezuela Measure

Republican lawmakers are taking steps to counter President Donald Trump’s aggressive stance on Greenland, including bipartisan visits to Copenhagen and legislation to prevent military action against NATO allies. The president has threatened to impose tariffs on eight European countries for opposing U.S. control of the Arctic island, raising concerns about the future of NATO.

Democrats, including Sen. Chris Van Hollen, have proposed using the War Powers Resolution to prevent Trump from taking unilateral military action. They argue that a similar resolution for Venezuela had limited GOP support, but a Greenland-specific measure might attract more Republican backing. Van Hollen said Congress could cut off military funding for Greenland or force presidential approval before deploying troops.

Republican lawmakers like Sen. Thom Tillis and Rep. Don Bacon have also criticized Trump’s approach. Tillis called the tariff plan "bad for America, bad for American businesses, and bad for America’s allies," while Bacon suggested an invasion of Greenland could lead to Trump’s impeachment.

Why Did This Happen?

The administration’s push for Greenland is framed as a national security issue, but critics argue it is a "land grab" to access the island’s minerals. Trump has claimed that China and Russia have designs on Greenland, prompting Europe to send military forces to the territory in support of Denmark. Denmark has increased its military presence in Greenland in coordination with allies.

Republican Sen. Lisa Murkowski warned that the U.S. tariffs could play into Russian hands by destabilizing NATO. She called the move "unnecessary, punitive, and a profound mistake" and urged Congress to prevent such actions.

How Did Markets React?

European leaders have warned that Trump’s tariff threats could trigger a dangerous trade war and undermine transatlantic relations. A joint statement from eight NATO allies emphasized their "full solidarity with Denmark" and the people of Greenland, rejecting U.S. pressure on the Arctic island.

In financial markets, analysts noted that while the economic impact of the tariffs may be minimal, the political fallout could be significant. European countries own $8 trillion in U.S. bonds and equities, giving them a strong economic lever if tensions escalate.

What Are Analysts Watching Next?

Congress is exploring several legislative options to limit Trump’s ability to take unilateral military action. These include measures to restrict the use of defense funds for attacks on NATO allies and resolutions to nullify Trump’s tariffs. Some lawmakers believe a war-powers resolution specific to Greenland could gain broader Republican support than the failed Venezuela measure.

The situation also raises questions about the future of U.S. foreign policy under Trump. While some Republicans have criticized his approach, others have downplayed the idea of military force. This division suggests the president may continue to push his agenda without significant legislative pushback.

Bipartisan efforts are underway to reinforce ties with Denmark and Greenland. A U.S. congressional delegation led by Sen. Chris Coons visited Copenhagen to de-escalate tensions and promote collaboration on Arctic security. The delegation emphasized that Greenland should be viewed as an ally, not an asset according to CBS News.

The outcome will depend on how Congress balances its constitutional authority with the need to maintain NATO unity. With Trump showing no signs of backing down, lawmakers face a difficult balancing act to prevent a military confrontation while preserving U.S. credibility.