US President Donald Trump has warned that the United States could take “tough action” to take control of Greenland if negotiations fail, citing national security concerns.
Greenland, the world’s largest island located in the Arctic region, is an autonomous territory under Denmark. Trump has repeatedly stated that Greenland is strategically vital for US security, claiming that Russian and Chinese activities in the surrounding waters pose a threat.
Speaking on the issue, Trump said Greenland was “absolutely essential” to America’s national security. He alleged that Russian and Chinese ships were increasingly present around the island and warned that the US could not allow either country to gain influence there.
“Whether they like it or not, we are going to do something about Greenland,” Trump said, adding that failure to act could allow Russia or China to take control of the territory. “We don’t want Russia or China as neighbours,” he said.
Trump said he preferred to resolve the matter through negotiations but did not rule out stronger measures. “I want to make a deal the easy way. But if that’s not possible, we’ll do it the hard way,” he said, indicating that the US could be forced to intervene if talks fail.
While expressing admiration for Denmark, Trump questioned its claim over Greenland, remarking that historical presence alone did not justify ownership. “Just because one of their boats landed there 500 years ago doesn’t mean they own the land,” he said, reiterating that the United States “definitely needs Greenland.”
Denmark has strongly opposed Trump’s remarks, firmly rejecting any suggestion of annexation.
