Donald Trump recently expressed his belief that the United States might annex Greenland. This statement came just days after Greenland’s incoming prime minister made it clear that the island does not wish to become part of the U.S.
During a meeting with NATO Secretary General Mark Rutte in the Oval Office, Trump was asked about his thoughts on Greenland. He replied, “I think that will happen,” adding that he hadn’t considered it much before but felt it could be important for international security. He mentioned concerns about various nations operating near Greenland’s coast, emphasizing the need for vigilance.
Trump questioned Denmark’s claim over Greenland, suggesting that the country is too distant from the island to have rightful ownership. He remarked, “A boat landed there 200 years ago or something. They say they have rights to it. I don’t know if that’s true. I don’t think it is, actually.” He also noted that the U.S. already has a military presence in Greenland and hinted at possibly increasing troop levels there.
This discussion follows a recent election in Greenland, where the center-right Demokraatit party won. The party’s victory is seen as a rejection of Trump’s earlier attempts to influence Greenland’s politics. The new leader, Jens-Frederik Nielsen, stated that the party supports a gradual move towards independence from Denmark, emphasizing their desire to build their own nation.
In a news briefing, Trump claimed that the election result was favorable for the U.S. He praised the winning candidate, saying, “the person who did the best is a very good person as far as we’re concerned.” Previously, Trump had promised significant investments in Greenland, assuring its residents that he would help make them prosperous.
As the situation unfolds, it appears that Greenland’s political landscape is shifting, with its leaders focused on self-determination rather than foreign interference.