Daijiworld Media Network - Washington
Washington, Jan 12: US President Donald Trump has asserted that the United States will take over Greenland, arguing that control of the Arctic territory is essential to prevent Russia or China from gaining a strategic foothold in the region.
Speaking to reporters aboard Air Force One, Trump said the US could not afford to let Greenland fall under the influence of rival powers. “If we don’t take Greenland, Russia or China will,” he said, adding bluntly, “I’m not letting that happen.”
While indicating a preference for a diplomatic resolution, Trump maintained that the final outcome was non-negotiable. “I’d rather make a deal. It’s easier,” he said, before adding, “But one way or the other, we’re going to have Greenland.”
When questioned about the possibility of military action, Trump stressed that the issue was about permanent control rather than temporary arrangements. “We’re talking about acquiring — not leasing, not short-term. We’re talking about ownership,” he said.
Dismissing concerns that such a move could weaken NATO, Trump claimed credit for strengthening the alliance. “I’m the one who saved NATO,” he said, asserting that member nations were now contributing “five per cent of GDP.”
He also brushed aside Greenland’s existing defence capabilities, remarking that they were minimal compared to growing Russian and Chinese naval activity in the Arctic. According to Trump, merely maintaining a US military presence was not enough. “You need ownership. You need a title,” he said, invoking real estate terminology.
Trump confirmed that no formal proposal had yet been made to Denmark, which governs Greenland as an autonomous territory. “I haven’t done that,” he said, but added that Greenland itself “should make the deal.”
Greenland’s strategic importance has risen sharply due to its Arctic location, proximity to emerging shipping lanes, and relevance to military and security planning. The United States already operates military facilities on the island, and Arctic security has become an increasing priority as Russian and Chinese activity in the region expands.