WASHINGTON: US President Donald Trump is reviewing ways to acquire Greenland, including potential use of the military, the White House confirmed on Tuesday, reviving his long-standing ambition despite opposition from Europe.
“The president and his team are discussing a range of options to pursue this important foreign policy goal, and of course, utilizing the US military is always an option at the commander-in-chief’s disposal,” the White House said. Trump views control of Greenland as a national security priority, aimed at deterring adversaries in the Arctic region.
Read More: Greenland rejects Trump’s annexation fantasies
Greenland, an autonomous territory of Denmark with a population of around 57,000, has repeatedly stated it does not wish to join the United States. European leaders and Canada have voiced support for Greenland’s sovereignty, warning that any US military action would strain NATO alliances.
White House confirms US military “always an option” for acquiring Greenland
Trump team actively discussing range of options including purchase or force
European leaders rally behind Denmark’s sovereignty
NATO facing unprecedented tension with its 🅱️iggest member
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A senior US official, speaking anonymously, said Trump’s team is exploring multiple avenues, including an outright purchase of the island or establishing a Compact of Free Association, which would stop short of full US incorporation. Secretary of State Marco Rubio told lawmakers in a classified briefing that the administration’s threats do not indicate an imminent invasion, and diplomacy remains the preferred approach.
Trump’s renewed focus on Greenland follows recent US actions in Latin America, including the arrest of Venezuelan President Nicolas Maduro, which the president cited as emboldening American influence in the Western Hemisphere.
Some members of Congress, including Republicans, have urged the administration to respect Denmark’s sovereignty. “When Denmark and Greenland make it clear that Greenland is not for sale, the United States must honor its treaty obligations,” said Senators Jeanne Shaheen and Thom Tillis.
Read More: Denmark firmly rejects Trump’s Greenland plans
Officials stress Greenland’s strategic importance due to untapped mineral resources critical for high-tech and military applications. “It’s not going away,” the White House said of the president’s drive to secure the island during his remaining three years in office.