Why Does Trump Want Greenland?
President elect Donald Trump has announced today that he has interest in acquiring Greenland. Trump has previously brought this up during his first term but he is now doubling down on this wish. Greenland is an autonomous territory of Denmark and they have made it very clear that it is not for sale. Regardless, Trump wrote on his Truth Social Network that, ” For purposes of national security and freedom throughout the world, the United states of America feels that the ownership and control of Greenland is an absolute necessity.”
Greenland Position Benefit To United States
Greenland’s geographic position in the Arctic makes it a pivotal location for military operations and surveillance. The island hosts Thule Air Base, the U.S. military’s northernmost installation, which plays a crucial role in monitoring potential threats from adversaries like Russia. Control over Greenland would enhance the United States’ ability to project power in the Arctic and maintain a strategic advantage in the region.
Why Does Donald Trump Want To Buy Greenland?
Beneath Greenland’s icy surface lies a wealth of untapped natural resources, including rare earth minerals, oil, and gas. As global demand for these resources grows, it can be advantageous for the U.S economy to secure these resources. However, environmental policies and indigenous opposition have slowed resource development, keeping Greenland’s economy reliant on fishing and Danish subsidies.
Greenland Geopolitical Benefits
In the context of great power competition, particularly with China and Russia, Greenland’s location is strategically important. Acquiring Greenland could serve as a countermeasure to China’s increasing economic activities in the Arctic and Russia’s military presence in the region. By bringing Greenland under U.S. sovereignty, the administration aims to preempt adversarial influence and secure a foothold in the Arctic.
Despite Trump’s assertions, Greenland’s leadership has consistently emphasized that the island is not for sale. Prime Minister Múte Egede has reiterated Greenland’s pursuit of independence from Denmark, highlighting the island’s desire for self-determination. Similarly, Danish Prime Minister Mette Frederiksen has stated that Greenland’s future should be decided by its people, reaffirming that it is not on the market. Trump has since also said that he would be open to using military force to acquire Greenland.
Feature Image Credit: Creator: ANDREW KELLY | Credit: REUTERS