Former President Donald Trump asserted that Greenland should be under U.S. control, citing its strategic importance and what he described as insufficient financial contributions from Denmark to the island's defense. Speaking at a summit, Trump argued that Greenland is a vital asset for the United States, particularly in light of perceived Russian and Chinese maritime activity in the region.
Trump suggested that if Greenland were controlled by the U.S., American financial commitments to European defense could be reduced. "We could remove all of our soldiers out of Europe,” he stated, implying that Greenland’s strategic position would offset the need for extensive military presence on the continent. He also noted that Europe has changed significantly over the past two decades.
Greenland's geopolitical significance lies in its location between the U.S., Russia, and Europe. Trump has previously voiced concerns that Denmark may not adequately protect the island from the interests of Russia and China.
Danish Prime Minister Mette Frederiksen reiterated her government's firm opposition to any U.S. takeover of Greenland. "It is a well known position of the United States that it wants to own and take over Greenland. I hope that it is equally well known everywhere that this is not going to happen,” she said, according to Reuters. Frederiksen had previously denounced Trump’s rationale for asserting U.S. control.
Trump's remarks come amidst ongoing discussions about NATO's collective security and burden-sharing among member nations, with the former president frequently criticizing allies for not meeting defense spending targets.