
Donald Trump has once again talked about wanting the U.S. to take control of Greenland, and this time he suggested he might even consider using military force. While playing golf with Finland’s Prime Minister Alexander Stubb, Trump told NBC, “We’ll get Greenland.
Yeah, 100%,” and added that although he hopes there won’t be a need for force, “I don’t take anything off the table.” His statement has upset leaders in Denmark and Greenland, but Trump didn’t seem bothered.
His comments followed a visit to Greenland by U.S. Vice President JD Vance, who strongly criticized Denmark. He said Denmark hasn’t done enough to support Greenland’s people or protect the island. He also suggested that Greenland would be better off partnering with the U.S., both for safety and for economic reasons.
Danish and Greenlandic leaders were quick to respond. Denmark’s Foreign Minister Lars Lokke Rasmussen reminded the U.S. that Denmark is a loyal NATO ally and should be treated with respect. Greenland’s Prime Minister Mute Bourup Egede agreed, saying Greenland’s future should be decided by its own people, not by outside countries.
The situation has increased tensions between the countries and raised more questions about control in the Arctic, a region important for both military and business reasons.
Protesters in Denmark have already reacted, holding Greenland flags in front of the U.S. embassy to show their anger.
Dr. Dwayne Ryan Menezes, a polar region expert, commented that in today’s changing world, Europe needs to be strong and capable on its own, not just relying on the U.S. for protection.
He also said that Trump and Vance should think about whether being aggressive in their language is really necessary. He warned that the only ones who benefit from this kind of division are the enemies of the U.S. and its allies. He urged leaders to return to unity and mutual respect, which he believes is the real strength of their partnerships.