Trump's Arctic Ambitions & Liberal Gun Grab: Readers Voice Concerns in Letters
Readers React: Trump's Greenland Threat, Liberal Gun Policy

Readers of the National Post have voiced strong opinions on a range of pressing issues, from geopolitical tensions in the Arctic to domestic policy debates, in a series of letters to the editor published on January 18, 2026.

Geopolitical Chess in the Arctic: Greenland and Canada in the Crosshairs

The spectre of former U.S. President Donald Trump aggressively pursuing a stake, or even a complete takeover, of Greenland has sparked significant commentary. Letter writer Jeffrey Barker of Mississauga, Ont., contrasts this with Prime Minister Justin Trudeau's foreign policy, noting wryly that while Trump fears rivals on America's doorstep, Canada is moving closer into China's sphere of influence. Barker warns that Mark Carney should prepare for intensified "51st state" rhetoric from south of the border.

Another correspondent, Sylvio Le Blanc from Montreal, praises the courage of Greenland's 56,500 residents standing firm against pressure from a nation of 342 million. Le Blanc argues that any forced annexation by the U.S. would spell the end of NATO, as Greenland is a member through Denmark. He suggests Trump redirect his focus to nations like Iran, which would allow Greenlanders and Danes to "breathe a sigh of relief."

Domestic Discontent: From Davos to Gun Control

On the home front, reader Susan Silverman of Toronto expressed bewilderment at the selection of Justin Trudeau to headline the Global Soft Power Summit in Davos. Citing his record on spending, energy sector policies, and relations with allies, Silverman questions why "the worst leader in Canadian history" was chosen for such a prestigious speaking role on economic resilience.

The Liberal government's firearms legislation also came under fire. Echoing columnist Tasha Kheiriddin's critique, readers argue the proposed gun confiscation measures are counterproductive. They contend the policy will only further erode public trust in government and law enforcement while potentially radicalizing otherwise law-abiding citizens.

A Reflection of National Concerns

These letters, published together, paint a picture of a readership deeply engaged with both international sovereignty issues and domestic governance. The concerns range from the strategic implications of great power politics in the Arctic to the perceived failures of leadership and policy at home. The collective voice highlights anxieties about Canada's place in a shifting world order and the direction of its internal policy debates as of early 2026.