US President Donald Trump has reignited controversy by declaring his intention to secure control of Greenland, warning that he will not allow Russia or China to dominate the Arctic territory.
Speaking aboard Air Force One, Trump said he preferred to strike a deal with Greenland rather than pursue military action but insisted the United States would acquire the island “one way or the other.”
“If we don’t take Greenland, Russia or China will take Greenland, and I’m not gonna let that happen,” he told reporters.
Trump argued that Greenland would benefit from closer ties with Washington, particularly in defence.
“Greenland, basically, their defence is two dogsleds. In the meantime, you have Russian destroyers and submarines, and China destroyers and submarines all over the place. We’re not gonna let that happen,” he said, though he provided no evidence of foreign naval activity near the island.
Independent agencies dispute his claims, noting ship-tracking data shows no Russian or Chinese presence in Greenland’s waters, though experts acknowledge Russian submarines may operate in the wider Arctic.
NATO Tensions
Trump admitted that a US takeover of Greenland could strain NATO relations but dismissed concerns.
“If it affects NATO, it affects NATO. But they need us much more than we need them,” he said.
The remarks come as the UK and other NATO members discuss deploying troops to Greenland to deter Russian aggression.
British officials confirmed talks are underway, with Transport Secretary Heidi Alexander noting that NATO allies are stepping up Arctic defence cooperation, including joint operations with Norway.
Germany has also confirmed discussions within NATO to bolster Arctic security.
China Responds
Beijing rejected Trump’s claims, accusing Washington of using other countries as a pretext to advance its own strategic interests.
China, which declared itself a “near-Arctic state” in 2018, has promoted its Polar Silk Road initiative as part of its Belt and Road strategy.
Foreign ministry spokesperson Mao Ning said: “The Arctic concerns the overall interests of the international community. China’s activities aim to promote stability and sustainable development in the region.”
Denmark’s “Decisive Moment”
Greenland, home to about 57,000 people, remains under Denmark’s defence umbrella. Danish Prime Minister Mette Frederiksen warned that Trump’s threats mark a turning point.
“This is a decisive moment,” she said, stressing that the conflict over Greenland’s future has global implications. In a social media post, Frederiksen vowed Denmark would defend its values and uphold international law, insisting a forceful incursion into the country will spell doom for the Alliance.
Germany and Sweden voiced strong support for Denmark, with Swedish Prime Minister Ulf Kristersson condemning Trump’s rhetoric as “threatening” and warning that any US takeover would violate international law.
Reports suggest NATO members are exploring contingency plans for a mission in Greenland, including possible deployment of troops, warships, and aircraft.
Belgium’s defence minister has called for a coordinated Arctic operation, citing the need for unity within the alliance.
Greenland, a former Danish colony until 1953, has expanded its autonomy under home rule. While some leaders support eventual independence, polls show the population overwhelmingly opposes any US takeover.
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I stand with Germany and Sweden, this is an outright violation of international law, in fact it is encroaching on annexation of land. If America continues like this, world war3 is really not that far.