US President Donald Trump has once again publicly advocated for the United States to acquire Greenland, arguing that the island’s current defence capabilities are inadequate and warning that it could otherwise fall under Russian or Chinese influence.
Speaking to reporters, Trump claimed Greenland should consider a deal with the US, saying its defences were minimal. “Do you know what their defence is? Two dog sleds. Meanwhile, you have Russian destroyers and submarines and Chinese destroyers and submarines all over the place. We’re not going to let that happen,” he said.
He added that any impact on NATO would be secondary, remarking, “If it affects NATO, then it affects NATO, but they need us much more than we need them.”
His comments come amid reports that the United Kingdom and Germany are discussing a joint NATO mission to strengthen Arctic security around Greenland. Asked whether such discussions would change his approach, Trump responded with a blunt “no” and reiterated that the objective was full control. “We’re talking about acquiring — not leasing, not short term. We’re talking about acquiring,” he said.
Trump also claimed that US forces are already present on the island. “We have bases on Greenland. We have a lot of soldiers there right now, if I want,” he said, but added that this was not enough. “You need more than that. You need ownership. You need title.”
Meanwhile, Denmark’s prime minister said the country faces a “decisive moment” in light of Trump’s repeated statements. Greenland, an autonomous territory of Denmark, has consistently rejected previous US overtures, and Copenhagen has maintained that the island is not for sale.
When asked whether he had made a formal offer to Greenland or Denmark, Trump said, “I haven’t done that. But Greenland should make the deal because Greenland does not want to see Russia or China take over.”
