President Donald Trump asserts the necessity for the United States to "own" Greenland as a strategic move to deter potential territorial interests from Russia and China. In response to a question from the BBC, Trump emphasized that true defense comes from ownership rather than leasing, implying the necessity to protect Greenland. He suggested that this could be achieved either "the easy way" or "the hard way," according to a statement he made to reporters on Friday.
The White House confirmed that the administration is exploring the acquisition of the semi-autonomous Danish territory. However, it notably did not exclude the possibility of annexation by force. Both Denmark and Greenland have categorically stated that the territory is not for sale and warned that military action could jeopardize existing trans-Atlantic defense relationships.
Greenland's leadership, supported by opposition parties, called for an end to perceived US disregard for Greenland's sovereignty. They emphasized the importance of self-determination, stating, "We do not want to be Americans, we do not want to be Danes, we want to be Greenlanders."
Despite being sparsely populated, Greenland's strategic location between North America and the Arctic makes it crucial for early warning systems and monitoring regional activity. Trump's insistence on Greenland's importance to US national security includes unsubstantiated claims about Russian and Chinese military presence in the area. The US currently maintains a significant military presence at its Pituffik base in northwest Greenland, operating under agreements with Denmark.
Trump dismissed leasing arrangements, arguing that ownership is essential, stating, "Countries can't make nine-year deals or even 100-year deals." He added his opposition to Russian or Chinese proximity to Greenland, placing emphasis on NATO's role in recognizing this stance. NATO allies have voiced their support for Denmark, affirming that Greenland's future should remain a decision exclusively for Denmark and Greenland, advocating for collective Arctic security measures while upholding international laws on sovereignty and border integrity.
Concerns have intensified following Trump's recent involvement in forcefully intervening in Venezuela and his previous unsuccessful attempt to purchase Greenland in 2019. The US Secretary of State Marco Rubio is set to engage in discussions with Denmark shortly. Interest has surged in Greenland's natural resources, including rare earth minerals and potential oil and gas reserves, which are becoming increasingly accessible due to climate change-induced ice melt.