Trump's intention to acquire Greenland has sparked global debate and intrigue. But what are the strategic and political reasons behind this unusual idea?
Recently, President Donald Trump surprised the world again by reaffirming his intention to acquire Greenland. The president elected of the US declared that this move would be “essential to national security and global freedom".
Although interest in the island is not new, dating back to his first term, the international reaction renews tension around the idea.
At the time, Danish Prime Minister Mette Frederiksen called the plan “absurd,” quickly shutting down the debate.
- UK wants to extract 500 million barrels of oil from the Falkland Islands and reignites historic territorial dispute with Argentina
- The Brazilian Air Force rescued 71 Techint employees in a secret and real operation, who were held hostage by the feared terrorist group Sendero Luminoso, in the Amazon rainforest
- US accuses China of building war complex 10 times larger than the Pentagon, with advanced technology and possible strategic use
- Trump steps up deportations, Mexico strengthens border amid political deal
Now, however, even before taking office again, Trump is signaling that he would use economic or even military influence to bring Greenland under US control.
The island, geographically located in North America but politically linked to Denmark, rekindles debates about sovereignty and global strategic interests.
European leaders reacted with concern, pointing to possible parallels with recent Russian actions. German Chancellor Olaf Scholz, without naming Trump directly, stressed: “The principle of the inviolability of borders applies to all countries, from East to West. "
Moscow and the reflection of the American threat
While Trump's proposal sparked outrage in Europe, Moscow took the opportunity to justify its own actions in Ukraine.
Kremlin spokesman Dmitry Peskov suggested that the people of Greenland should be consulted, citing referendums held in Ukrainian regions annexed by Russia — widely condemned as fraudulent by the international community.
Frederiksen's reaction this time was more restrained.We need very close cooperation with the Americans. The US is our closest ally.“, said the prime minister, after a phone call with Trump.
The conciliatory stance reflects Denmark's complex position, torn between preserving its sovereignty and maintaining strategic relations with the US.
A People Divided: Greenlandic Identity at Stake
In Greenland, the feeling of independence is strong. Ulrik Pram Gad, an expert at the Danish Institute for International Studies, points out that Trump's moves are in line with the Monroe Doctrine, which seeks to distance external influences from America.They want to ensure that no Chinese or Russians establish a presence in Greenland.“, explained Gad.
The historical ties between Denmark and Greenland are long-standing. A Danish colony until 1953, the island is now an autonomous territory with the right to independence via referendum since 2009.
However, dependence on Danish funds and a small population of around 57 make independence a logistical and economic challenge.
Greenland's Prime Minister Mute Egede advocates independence but rejects being subordinate to any nation.We don't want to be Danish. We don't want to be American. We want to be Greenlanders.“, he declared, reiterating the need for a self-sufficient future.
The jewel of the arctic
The interest in Greenland is not limited to its strategic location. The island is rich in natural resources, such as oil, gas and rare earths — essential for technologies such as electric cars and wind turbines.
China currently dominates global production of these minerals, which increases Greenland's attractiveness as an alternative.
Melting ice caps caused by climate change are making these deposits more accessible. However, environmental issues have made exploration difficult. So far, the local government has blocked mining projects to protect the environment.
In addition, the retreat of the ice has opened up new shipping routes, facilitating navigation between Europe and Asia. These changes have made Greenland even more coveted by both economic and military powers. Russia and China, for example, are seeking to expand their influence in the Arctic, raising concerns among NATO members.
American military presence
The United States has maintained a significant military presence in Greenland since World War II. When Nazi Germany occupied Denmark in 1940, the Americans quickly sent troops to prevent a German invasion of the island. In 1946, Harry Truman offered $100 million in gold for Greenland, but Denmark refused.
Despite this, the American military base remained. Today known as Pituffik Space Base, it houses advanced missile warning systems, given the strategic proximity between Europe and North America.
Trump and the tradition of territorial acquisitions
Trump's proposal to acquire Greenland may seem outlandish, but it has historical precedent. Throughout the 19th century, the US bought territories such as Louisiana (from France), Alaska (from Russia) and Florida (from Spain).
Even Denmark has sold land to the Americans, such as the Virgin Islands, acquired in 1917 for US$25 million.
However, Greenland is not for sale. Mute Egede categorically rejected the idea, stating: “Greenland is ours.
We are not for sale and we never will be.” Even so, financial dependence on Denmark casts doubt on the island’s ability to fully decide its future.
Ulrik Pram Gad suggests that the US could offer higher subsidies to Greenland in exchange for more advantageous security deals. However, he believes that Trump would be unlikely to invest in something that is already to some extent under US control, due to existing military agreements.
Denmark and Arctic Security
If Trump's intention was to pressure Denmark to strengthen its presence in the Arctic, he has already achieved results.
The Danish government has announced a €1,5 billion increase in military spending for the region. Although the plan had been in the works for some time, the announcement coincided with Trump’s statements, which was seen by many as a “stroke of luck”.
Furthermore, Frederiksen has demonstrated a diplomatic approach to avoid conflict with NATO’s main member. For Denmark, maintaining the alliance is crucial, especially in the face of rising global tensions.
What's to come?
While Greenland is not for sale, Trump may seek other avenues of influence. Analysts believe he will try to ensure that even in the event of independence, Greenland remains firmly aligned with NATO and American interests. That would include a commitment to maintaining U.S. military bases on the island.
Ulrik Pram Gad warns that Trump's actions reflect a pattern of unpredictable behavior.The problem we will face in the coming years is that every time he says something, we will all run around trying to understand what is behind it. Maybe not even he knows.“He concluded.
Meanwhile, Greenland remains a central piece in the geopolitical chessboard. Its natural riches and strategic location continue to attract the interest of major powers. For Greenlanders, however, the fight for autonomy remains a priority, even in the face of global disputes.