US President Donald Trump has once again stirred global controversy by openly suggesting the use of force to acquire Greenland, dismissing Denmark’s sovereignty over the autonomous Arctic island and framing the issue as a matter of American national security.
Speaking at a White House meeting with oil executives on Friday, Trump said the United States would act on Greenland “whether they like it or not,” making it clear that diplomatic negotiations were not his only option. “I would like to make a deal the easy way,” he said. “But if we don’t do it the easy way, we’re going to do it the hard way.”
Trump argued that controlling Greenland is crucial due to its strategic location and vast mineral resources, especially amid increased military activity by Russia and China in the Arctic region. “We’re not going to have Russia or China occupy Greenland,” he said, claiming that inaction by the US could allow rival powers to expand their influence there.
Although Russia and China have stepped up their Arctic presence in recent years, neither country has formally laid claim to Greenland. The island remains a self-governing territory under Denmark, a long-standing US ally and NATO member.
Trump’s remarks have drawn sharp reactions from Europe. Danish Prime Minister Mette Frederiksen has warned that any invasion of Greenland would effectively destroy NATO and undermine the post-World War II security framework. European leaders have also expressed shock at what they see as an unprecedented threat against a sovereign territory.
Despite the backlash, Trump attempted to soften his tone toward Denmark, calling it a friendly nation. However, he questioned Denmark’s historical claim to Greenland, remarking that a landing “500 years ago” did not equate to ownership of the land.
The United States already maintains a military base in Greenland, underscoring its strategic importance. US Secretary of State Marco Rubio is expected to meet Danish officials and representatives from Greenland next week, as tensions rise over Trump’s renewed and provocative stance.
