Florida [US] – US President-elect Donald Trump has left open the possibility of using military force to bring Greenland under US control. Speaking during a lengthy press conference at his Mar-a-Lago residence on Tuesday, Trump emphasized Greenland’s importance for economic security.
When asked whether he could guarantee that military or economic coercion would not be used to acquire Greenland or the Panama Canal, Trump responded, “I can’t assure you… But I can say this – we need them for economic security.”
The comments came as Trump’s son, Donald Trump Jr., embarked on a visit to Greenland described as “private.” In a Truth Social post on Monday, Trump stated, “I am hearing that the people of Greenland are ‘MAGA.’ My son, Don Jr., and various representatives will be traveling there to visit some of the most magnificent areas and sights. Greenland is an incredible place, and the people will benefit tremendously if, and when, it becomes part of our Nation. We will protect it, and cherish it, from a very vicious outside World. MAKE GREENLAND GREAT AGAIN.”
A video posted by Trump included a man in a MAGA hat saying, “Buy us. Buy Greenland,” in response to a woman’s question about what message he would give Trump.
Earlier, on January 7, Trump posted about his son’s Greenland trip, writing, “Don Jr. and my Reps landing in Greenland. The reception has been great. They, and the Free World, need safety, security, strength, and PEACE! This is a deal that must happen. MAGA. MAKE GREENLAND GREAT AGAIN!”
Meanwhile, Danish Prime Minister Mette Frederiksen has firmly opposed Trump’s ambitions. In an interview with Danish TV, Frederiksen stated, “The future of Greenland is defined by the Greenlanders, not by the rest of us… It is their country that is at stake here.”
Greenland, the world’s largest island, is home to about 56,000 people. While it has extensive local governance, it remains part of the Danish Realm.