President Donald Trump on Wednesday reaffirmed the strategic importance of Greenland for the United States, citing national security concerns and warning that rival powers could move into the Arctic island if the US does not act. His remarks came following a White House meeting involving US and Danish officials.
Trump said the issue is under review at the highest levels of the US government and that he expected a detailed briefing after Vice President J.D. Vance and Secretary of State Marco Rubio met with Denmark’s Foreign Minister Lars Løkke Rasmussen and Greenland’s top diplomat Vivian Motzfeldt. He emphasized Greenland’s unique location as vital for both American and European security.
“We have a very good relationship with Denmark, but Greenland’s position is critical,” Trump told reporters, highlighting what he called the “Golden Dome” project and other defense initiatives tied to the island. He warned that Russia and China could establish a presence in Greenland if the US does not secure its interests.
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Pressed on whether the US might pursue aggressive measures to acquire Greenland, Trump declined to specify options. “I wouldn’t be telling you what I’m willing to do. Certainly, I’m not going to give up options,” he said, while stressing that discussions remain ongoing and no immediate policy decisions have been made.
Trump also downplayed concerns about potential impacts on NATO, insisting that the alliance supports US efforts. “I spoke with the head of NATO, and he really wants to see something happen,” Trump said, while noting Denmark lacks the capacity to fully defend Greenland against major powers. He also mocked Danish defense measures, saying the addition of “a second dog sled” was insufficient.
The US interest in Greenland, Trump noted, is not new and has been discussed by American leaders for decades, including President Truman. He concluded by reaffirming Greenland’s strategic importance for national security, adding, “Greenland is very important for national security. And that includes for Europe.”
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