President Donald Trump is making waves once again with his renewed push to bring Greenland under U.S. control—a move that has sparked backlash from Denmark, Greenland’s leaders, and even the people of the Arctic island itself.
The 78-year-old, who was sworn in for his second term on January 20, has long considered Greenland a strategic asset. While he first floated the idea of acquiring the island in 2019, his latest comments suggest that he is more determined than ever to pursue U.S. control over the territory.
Why Does Trump Want Greenland?
For President Trump, Greenland is more than just a vast, icy landmass—it’s a strategic necessity. Positioned between North America and Europe, the island holds immense geopolitical value, serving as a critical military and economic asset.
Here’s why Trump sees Greenland as a must-have for the U.S.:
- Military Significance: Greenland is home to Thule Air Base, a major American military installation that plays a crucial role in missile defense and early warning systems.
- Natural Resources: The island boasts vast reserves of rare earth minerals, uranium, and iron, which are vital for modern technology and defense industries.
- Control Over Arctic Trade Routes: As climate change melts Arctic ice, Greenland is becoming a key player in emerging shipping lanes that could rival traditional global trade routes.
Trump’s Bold Statements on Greenland
Since retaking office, Trump has reignited the conversation about acquiring Greenland, making bold claims that the U.S. will eventually take control of the Arctic island.
Speaking aboard Air Force One on January 25, he confidently stated:
“I think we’re going to have it. I think the people want to be with us.”
He went even further, questioning Denmark’s right to control Greenland:
“I don’t really know what claim Denmark has to it, but it would be a very unfriendly act if they didn’t allow that to happen because it’s for the protection of the free world.”
“I think Greenland we’ll get because it has to do with freedom of the world. It has nothing to do with the United States other than that we’re the one that can provide the freedom. They can’t.”
These comments have only intensified global concerns, with many wondering how far Trump is willing to go to pursue his vision.
Denmark and Greenland Fire Back
Despite Trump’s confidence, officials in both Denmark and Greenland have firmly rejected the idea of U.S. control.
Greenland’s Prime Minister Mute Egede responded sharply, asserting:
“Decisions about Greenland’s land are Greenland’s business.”
While Egede acknowledged that Greenland is open to collaborating with the U.S. on defense and mining, he made it clear that selling or transferring control of the island is off the table.
Meanwhile, Danish Prime Minister Mette Frederiksen pushed back forcefully, reaffirming:
“Greenland belongs to the Greenlanders.”
Reports suggest that Trump and Frederiksen had a tense, 45-minute phone call, during which the Danish leader forcefully rejected any possibility of the U.S. taking over Greenland. According to sources, the conversation was “horrendous” and described as “serious and potentially very dangerous” by European officials.
Greenlanders React: “We Are Not for Sale”
Trump’s remarks haven’t just ruffled feathers among politicians—Greenlanders themselves are speaking out against the idea.
- Bilo Chemnitz, a resident of Nuuk, told The Washington Post:“I don’t trust the guy.”
- Ida Abelsen, another Greenlander, criticized Trump’s tone, stating:“I don’t like the way he talks about Greenland.”
- Kaaleeraq Ringsted, a local church elder, dismissed Trump’s statements altogether, declaring:“Greenland is not for sale.”
Clearly, many locals view Trump’s ambitions as disrespectful and dismiss the notion that Greenlanders would willingly align with the U.S.
How Could the U.S. Take Control of Greenland?
While Denmark and Greenland have flat-out rejected Trump’s idea, he has hinted at multiple strategies for acquiring the territory—including ones that go beyond diplomacy.
When asked whether he would rule out economic or military pressure to gain control of Greenland, Trump declined to do so—a statement that has only fueled fears about his administration’s next moves.
Potential ways Trump could attempt to acquire Greenland include:
- Economic Leverage: The U.S. could try offering financial incentives to Greenland in exchange for closer ties or eventual U.S. governance.
- Military Agreements: Increased U.S. military presence on the island could solidify American influence.
- Diplomatic Pressure on Denmark: The U.S. could pressure Denmark politically and economically, pushing for a sale or transfer of power.
- Encouraging Greenland’s Independence: If Greenland sought full independence from Denmark, the U.S. could position itself as a powerful ally, paving the way for deeper American control.
Is Trump’s Greenland Plan Feasible?
At the moment, Trump’s dream of acquiring Greenland seems highly unlikely. Both Denmark and Greenland have outright rejected any possibility of a sale, and international laws protect Greenland’s right to self-determination.
However, given Greenland’s strategic value and economic potential, it’s possible that Trump could explore alternative ways to strengthen U.S. influence over the island—without outright ownership.
Final Thoughts: A Controversy That Won’t Go Away
Trump’s renewed push to bring Greenland under U.S. control has already created diplomatic tensions, sparked backlash from Greenlanders, and raised concerns among global leaders.
While Denmark and Greenland remain firmly against the idea, Trump’s persistent interest in acquiring the Arctic island suggests that this issue may not go away anytime soon.
The real question is: How far is Trump willing to go? Will he accept Denmark’s firm rejection, or will he push forward with economic or military strategies to increase U.S. influence in the Arctic?
Only time will tell, but one thing is certain—Greenland isn’t backing down, and neither is Trump.
