WHY TRUMP WANTS GREENLAND: The Strategic and Controversial Push for Control

By Alex Assoune Jan 08, 2025

In early January 2025, President-elect Donald Trump reignited his interest in acquiring Greenland, citing national security concerns and suggesting the potential use of military force to achieve this objective. This development has sparked significant international debate, raising questions about the strategic importance of Greenland, the implications for U.S. foreign policy, and the reactions from global stakeholders.

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Historical Context

The United States has previously expressed interest in Greenland. In 1946, the Truman administration offered $100 million in gold to Denmark for the island, an offer that was declined. During his first term, President Trump proposed purchasing Greenland in 2019, but the idea was dismissed by Danish and Greenlandic authorities. Despite this, Trump's interest persisted, culminating in renewed efforts following his re-election in 2024. Wikipedia

Strategic Importance of Greenland

Greenland's significance to the United States stems from several factors:

Geopolitical Location: Situated between North America and Europe, Greenland offers a strategic military vantage point in the Arctic region. The Thule Air Base in Greenland is the U.S. military's northernmost installation, playing a crucial role in missile warning and space surveillance.

Natural Resources: Greenland is rich in rare earth minerals essential for modern technologies, including defense systems and electronics. Securing these resources could reduce U.S. dependence on other suppliers, notably China. The Times

Arctic Shipping Routes: As Arctic ice melts, new shipping lanes are emerging, potentially reducing travel time between major ports. Control over Greenland could provide the U.S. with significant influence over these routes.

Trump's Renewed Interest and Statements

In December 2024, President-elect Trump declared that U.S. ownership of Greenland was an "absolute necessity" for national security. He appointed Ken Howery as ambassador to Denmark, signaling a renewed focus on the region. Trump's son, Donald Trump Jr., visited Greenland in early January 2025, engaging with local communities and conveying messages from his father about potential U.S. governance.

During a press conference on January 7, 2025, Trump refused to rule out the use of military force to acquire Greenland, stating, "I'm not going to commit to that. It might be that you'll have to do something." He emphasized Greenland's importance to U.S. national security and questioned Denmark's sovereignty over the island. AP News

International Reactions

Trump's statements have elicited strong reactions:

Denmark: Danish Prime Minister Mette Frederiksen reiterated that Greenland is not for sale and emphasized the importance of respectful collaboration in the Arctic. Denmark announced plans to increase defense spending in Greenland, signaling a commitment to protecting its interests.

Greenland: Greenlandic Premier Múte Egede affirmed the island's autonomy, stating, "Greenland is ours. We are not for sale and will never be for sale." The local population has expressed a mix of curiosity and apprehension regarding U.S. intentions.

Canada: Trump's broader foreign policy ambitions, including suggestions of annexing Canada, have been met with firm rejection. Outgoing Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau stated that the notion of Canada becoming the 51st state has "a snowball's chance in hell." The Australian

Implications for U.S. Foreign Policy

Trump's aggressive stance represents a departure from traditional U.S. foreign policy, which has prioritized self-determination and diplomatic alliances. His approach emphasizes unilateral action and economic coercion, raising concerns about the potential alienation of allies and the destabilization of established international norms.

Conclusion

President-elect Trump's renewed interest in Greenland underscores the island's strategic importance in contemporary geopolitics. However, the suggestion of using military force to acquire territory challenges international principles of sovereignty and self-determination. As the situation develops, it will be crucial to monitor diplomatic engagements and the responses of global stakeholders to this unprecedented proposal.

Sources:

https://nypost.com/2025/01/07/us-news/why-does-donald-trump-want-greenland/

https://www.wsj.com/politics/policy/trump-foreign-policy-expansion-canada-greenland-panama-canal-b1cbe478

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About the Author: Alex Assoune

Alex Assoune (MS) is a global health and environmental advocate. He founded Panaprium to inspire others with conscious living, ethical, and sustainable fashion. Alex has worked in many countries to address social and environmental issues. He speaks three languages and holds two Master of Science degrees in Engineering from SIGMA and IFPEN schools.

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