Former President Donald Trump has once again stirred controversy by expressing renewed interest in acquiring Greenland, a semi-autonomous territory under Denmark. Speaking aboard Air Force One, Trump asserted that the United States would ultimately gain control of the Arctic island, claiming it was essential for “international security” and the “freedom of the world.”
“I think we’re going to have it,” Trump remarked, suggesting that Greenland’s 57,000 residents “want to be with us.” His remarks come despite repeated rejections from both Greenlandic and Danish leaders, who have emphasized that the island is not for sale. Greenland’s Prime Minister Mute Egede stated unequivocally, “Greenland belongs to Greenlanders,” while Denmark’s Prime Minister Mette Frederiksen reiterated, “Only Greenland’s people can determine its future.”
Trump first floated the idea of buying Greenland in 2019 during his presidency, calling US control of the region an “absolute necessity.” While his comments may seem audacious, they underscore Greenland’s strategic and economic significance. Its location on the shortest route between North America and Europe makes it vital for military operations, and the island’s abundance of rare earth minerals, uranium, and iron has drawn global interest.
Trump’s assertion that Denmark’s refusal to sell Greenland would be an “unfriendly act” has been met with skepticism. Frederiksen reportedly had a heated 45-minute phone exchange with Trump earlier this month, during which she dismissed the idea. European officials have called Trump’s interest “serious, and potentially very dangerous,” reflecting concerns over heightened geopolitical tensions.
Greenland’s autonomy has grown in recent years, and many of its residents envision eventual independence from Denmark. While Egede expressed willingness to collaborate with the US on defense and mining, local sentiments suggest that Trump’s claims of widespread support are unfounded. A fishing boat captain from Kapisillit commented, “Greenland belongs to Greenlanders,” while church elder Kaaleeraq Ringsted labeled Trump’s rhetoric “not acceptable.”
Trump’s musings about potential military or economic means to acquire Greenland have unsettled Copenhagen, prompting emergency political meetings. Denmark’s refusal to sell Greenland aligns with international norms respecting territorial sovereignty, though Trump frames the acquisition as a necessity for global stability.
As geopolitical interest in the Arctic grows, Trump’s Greenland ambitions highlight the island’s rising importance. Whether this renewed push will influence US policy or remain another bold Trumpian assertion remains to be seen.
