U.S. President Donald Trump said the United States needs to “own” Greenland to prevent Russia or China from gaining influence. He framed the move as critical for national security and Arctic strategy. Trump repeated that full ownership is necessary, rather than relying on leases or military access.
Speaking to reporters at the White House, Trump said, “We are going to do something about Greenland, whether they like it or not.” He added the U.S. could pursue control either “the easy way” or “the hard way.” Trump claimed Russia or China could establish a presence if the U.S. does not act.
The United States already maintains a military presence in Greenland under a defence agreement with Denmark. Over 100 U.S. personnel are stationed at a base in the northwest. Trump argued that such agreements are insufficient for long-term defence, emphasizing that “you defend ownership, you don’t defend leases.”
Greenland’s location makes it strategically valuable, lying between North America, Europe, and the Arctic. It provides opportunities for early warning systems and monitoring naval activity. Trump and officials cited the island’s importance in countering geopolitical rivals in the Arctic region.
Read more : Trump Considers Military Options to Acquire Greenland
Denmark and Greenland have rejected the idea of U.S. ownership. Danish leaders warned that attempts to seize control could undermine NATO and post-World War II alliances. European allies, including France and Germany, also affirmed that decisions about Greenland’s future belong to Denmark and Greenland.
Trump first suggested buying Greenland in 2019, an idea rejected at the time. He linked the island to broader national security concerns and global competition. Experts note Greenland’s natural resources, including rare earth minerals and oil, increase its economic and strategic value as the Arctic becomes more accessible.
Greenlandic political leaders reiterated their desire for self-determination. They said, “We do not want to be Americans, we do not want to be Danes, we want to be Greenlanders.” They emphasized that decisions about the territory’s future must belong to the people of Greenland.
