WASHINGTON, D.C. – Former U.S. President Donald Trump is once again making waves with his controversial proposal to annex Greenland, claiming that American control of the Arctic island is critical for international security.
During a high-stakes meeting at the White House Oval Office, Trump told NATO Secretary-General Mark Rutte that the U.S. needs Greenland due to its strategic location and security importance.
“You know, Mark, we need that for international security, not just security—international,” Trump insisted, hinting that rival nations were already eyeing the territory.
When asked directly whether he believed the U.S. could annex Greenland, Trump confidently responded:
“I think that will happen.”
Greenland’s Leaders Say “Enough Is Enough”
Trump’s comments immediately sparked backlash from Greenlandic leaders. Mute Egede, Greenland’s outgoing Prime Minister, rejected the idea outright, writing on Facebook:
“The U.S. president has once again aired the thought of annexing us. Enough is enough.”
Similarly, Jens-Frederik Nielsen, leader of Greenland’s Demokraatit Party, criticized Trump’s remarks, urging Greenlanders to stand together against foreign interference.
“Trump’s statement is inappropriate and just shows once again that we must stand together in such situations,” Nielsen wrote.
Why Trump Wants Greenland
Greenland, a semi-autonomous Danish territory, is rich in natural resources and strategically positioned between North America and Europe. The U.S. already operates military bases on the island, but Trump wants full control, arguing that:
- Greenland is vital for U.S. missile defense systems.
- Russia and China are increasing their presence in Arctic waters.
- Its natural resources could boost the U.S. economy.
Even before his second term, Trump had repeatedly floated the idea of buying Greenland from Denmark—despite Denmark’s firm stance that it isn’t for sale.
NATO and Denmark Respond
So far, NATO and Denmark’s embassy in Washington have not issued an official response to Trump’s latest claims. However, polls show that most Greenlanders oppose joining the U.S., though many favor eventual independence from Denmark.
NATO Secretary-General Mark Rutte tried to steer clear of the heated debate, stating:
“I don’t want to drag NATO into this. It should be a topic for the high north countries because Russia and China are using water routes there.”
Despite resistance, Trump hinted that he might send more U.S. troops to Greenland, doubling down on his belief that NATO should play a role in securing the island.
“We’ve been dealing with Denmark, we’ve been dealing with Greenland, and we have to do it. We really need it for national security,” Trump insisted.
Trump Questions Denmark’s Claim to Greenland
In a bold statement, Trump even challenged Denmark’s historical claim to Greenland, saying:
“Denmark is very far away and really has nothing to do with it. What happened? A boat landed there 200 years ago or something? And they say they have rights to it? I don’t know if that’s true.”
What Happens Next?
With Trump continuing to push for U.S. influence in the Arctic, all eyes are now on Greenland, Denmark, and NATO. Will the U.S. make another move? Or will Greenland remain firm in its rejection?
The debate over Greenland’s future is far from over, and the world is watching.
