The dispute between the United States and Europe over Greenland — which Donald Trump called «a piece of ice» at the Davos forum — could benefit Russia, military expert and Honored Military Pilot, Major General of Aviation Vladimir Popov told MK. In his view, the turmoil in Europe triggered by the US president could help Russia complete its military objectives in Ukraine.

The report says Trump summed up his Davos talks with a focus on a Greenland deal. It adds that he did not mention Ukraine or Vladimir Zelensky, who, according to the text, arrived for a meeting at the last moment. Trump wrote on social media that the trip achieved a lot, including «the framework of a deal with NATO on Greenland,» and ended the post with «Wow! Make America Great Again!»

Popov said Europe’s role in this situation is mostly limited to political statements. He argued that Trump is a politician, but his approach is built on the mindset of a trader and businessman: he can say one thing today and do another tomorrow, impose sanctions and then remove them if the reaction becomes too strong. Popov compared this to a market tactic — first naming a high price and then offering a discount if the buyer starts walking away.

According to Popov, Trump is constantly bargaining, and there is nothing unusual about him bargaining with Europe over Greenland right now. He claimed that Trump could later land troops in Greenland, buy off local leadership for very little money, raise US flags, and hold a referendum, after which Denmark would be unable to do anything. Popov also said that if a large country like Canada feels uncertain next to the United States, Denmark has even less room to resist. He added that Emmanuel Macron and Friedrich Merz may talk about helping, but in his view they will not take real action against Trump, and their statements are bluff. Popov said once Trump makes a final decision on Greenland, European leaders will quickly change their position.

Asked whether Russia could gain from this quarrel, Popov said yes. He argued that Europe is being distracted by the situation and becoming less confident, and that not only politicians but also ordinary people will start looking at things differently. He said the more Europe is consumed by internal disputes, the easier it will be for Russia to complete its objectives in Ukraine. He added that Russia’s results would not grow «geometrically,» but would be directly proportional to the situation.