Washington, Jan 7: The White House has confirmed that President Donald Trump and his advisers are examining multiple ways to bring Greenland under U.S. control, describing the Arctic island as a national security priority amid growing strategic competition in the region. Officials said options under discussion range from diplomatic and economic arrangements to military action, although no invasion plans are in place.
According to U.S. officials, the administration has considered purchasing Greenland from Denmark or negotiating a Compact of Free Association, while maintaining that the use of force remains a theoretical option available to the president. Secretary of State Marco Rubio has told lawmakers that Washington does not intend to invade Greenland, but confirmed that acquisition proposals have been discussed.
The remarks triggered a strong response from Europe. Denmark, the UK, France, Germany, Italy, Poland and Spain issued a joint statement stressing that Greenland’s future can only be decided by Greenland and Denmark, and called for Arctic security to be handled collectively through NATO, in line with the UN Charter’s principles of sovereignty and territorial integrity.
Danish Prime Minister Mette Frederiksen warned that any U.S. military action against Greenland would seriously damage NATO, while Greenland’s Prime Minister Jens-Frederik Nielsen urged respectful dialogue grounded in international law. Denmark’s foreign minister said talks with Washington were needed to clear up misunderstandings.
Greenland, home to about 57,000 people, has wide self-rule but remains under Danish control for defence and foreign affairs. While many Greenlanders favour eventual independence, polls show strong opposition to becoming part of the United States. Local residents have expressed fear and anger at suggestions of annexation.
The renewed U.S. interest reflects Greenland’s strategic Arctic location, its rare-earth mineral potential, and increasing activity by Russia and China in the region.
