In a recent interview, U.S. President Donald Trump reiterated his intention to annex Greenland, stating, “I think there’s a good possibility that we could do it without military force.” He emphasized the island’s strategic importance for national security and did not rule out the use of military action, asserting, “I never take military force off the table” regarding Greenland.
Vice President J.D. Vance supported this stance during a visit to the U.S. Pituffik Space Base in Greenland. He criticized Denmark for underinvesting in Greenland’s security and advocated for increased U.S. involvement, suggesting that Greenland would be safer under American protection amid perceived threats from Russia and China.
These developments have heightened tensions with Denmark and Greenland. Danish Prime Minister Mette Frederiksen defended her country’s efforts in Arctic defense, highlighting a recent $2.1 billion investment in Arctic security, including new naval vessels and surveillance equipment. Greenlandic lawmakers have formed a coalition government opposing U.S. annexation attempts, emphasizing their commitment to self-determination and resisting external pressures.
Internationally, Russian President Vladimir Putin expressed support for Trump’s annexation plans, comparing them to historical U.S. territorial expansions and suggesting that large nations have inherent territorial ambitions. This endorsement has raised concerns among NATO allies about the implications for global stability and the precedent it may set for international relations.
