WATCH: Mitch McConnell Slurs His Words During Embarrassing Attempt To Dissuade Trump From Taking Greenland

Sen. Mitch McConnell made an awkward and rambling attempt Wednesday to knock President Donald Trump off his push to bring Greenland under U.S. control, delivering a halting speech that quickly went viral as critics questioned his clarity and focus.

Trump has argued that Greenland is a strategic prize the United States must secure before Russia or China moves into the Arctic region. The White House has not ruled out pursuing the territory through a deal or other means, framing the issue as one of national security.

McConnell, however, warned that Trump’s approach could alienate key allies, stumbling through a lengthy statement that drew attention for its disjointed phrasing.

“Unless and until the president can demonstrate otherwise, then the proposition at hand today is very straightforward: Incinerating the hard-won trust of loyal allies in exchange for no meaningful change in U.S. access to the Arctic,” McConnell said.

Mitch McConnell defends Denmark’s claim to Greenland as Trump looks to acquire the territory.

Man… and he still has a full year in office. pic.twitter.com/HntnhclWJy

— johnny maga (@_johnnymaga) January 14, 2026

He went on to argue that Donald Trump’s success in pressuring allies to spend more on defense could be undermined by the Greenland debate.

“Make no mistake: All of the good progress the president has made in pushing allies to spend more on defense… The increased burden-sharing… The demand for American-made capabilities… All of it would be for nothing if his administration’s ill-advised threats about Greenland were to shatter the trust of our allies,” McConnell added.

The remarks came as polling shows Americans remain skeptical of any aggressive move toward the Danish territory. A Quinnipiac University survey released Wednesday found 86% of Americans oppose taking Greenland by military force, with just 9% in favor. Fifty-five percent also oppose purchasing it, while 37% support a buyout.

Mitch McConnell ended his comments with a stark warning aimed directly at Trump’s legacy.

“Following through on this provocation would be more disastrous for the president’s legacy than withdrawing from Afghanistan was for his predecessor.”

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