Trump: ‘We’ll get Greenland, 100 Percent’; Military Force Not ‘off Table’

|Published March 30, 2025

Greenland: The Unexpected Battleground of Geopolitics

In a move reminiscent of historical land acquisitions, former U.S. President Donald Trump has once again ignited discussions about the potential annexation of Greenland. His recent comments have stirred diplomatic tensions between the United States, Denmark, and Greenland itself, placing the Arctic island at the center of a geopolitical storm.

A Renewed Bid for Greenland

Trump, who previously floated the idea of purchasing Greenland during his presidency, recently reiterated his belief that the U.S. should acquire the island, citing strategic military and economic benefits. “We’ll get Greenland. Yeah, 100%,” he declared in a recent interview. Though he stated that he prefers a peaceful approach, he also left the door open for other means, saying, “I don’t take anything off the table.”

Traditional Greenlandic housing is seen from the Myggedalen viewpoint on March 28, 2025, in Nuuk, Greenland. | Leon Neal/Getty Images

Greenland, an autonomous territory under Danish sovereignty, holds immense strategic value due to its location in the Arctic. It serves as a crucial point for missile defense, surveillance, and military operations, making it a highly desirable asset for global powers. Additionally, its vast natural resources, including rare earth minerals, have drawn increasing attention in the face of rising global demand.

U.S. Pressure and Denmark’s Resistance

The Biden administration, while not explicitly endorsing Trump’s comments, has continued to emphasize Greenland’s strategic importance. Vice President J.D. Vance, during a recent visit to the U.S. military’s Pituffik Space Base in Greenland, suggested that Denmark has not done enough to secure the island. He warned that if Denmark does not step up its security efforts, the U.S. may need to take a more direct role. This assertion has raised concerns in Copenhagen, where officials see it as a veiled threat.

AT the icy edge of the Arctic, a Cold War-era military outpost has once again been thrust into the spotlight — this time by Donald Trump’s right-hand man.

As part of his controversial visit, Vice President JD Vance touched down at the Pittufik Space Base in northwestern Greenland on Friday, one of the most remote and secretive US military installations on Earth.

Vice President JD Vance and second lady Usha Vance tour the U.S. military’s Pituffik Space Base in GreenlandCredit: AP

Danish Foreign Minister Lars Løkke Rasmussen responded sharply, stating, “This is not how you speak to your close allies.” He reaffirmed Denmark’s commitment to Greenland’s security but rejected any suggestion that the island’s sovereignty was up for debate.

Greenland’s Own Stance

Amid the international tug-of-war, Greenlandic leaders have been vocal about their opposition to any U.S. annexation. Greenland’s Prime Minister, Múte B. Egede, firmly stated, “Greenland belongs to the Greenlanders,” emphasizing the island’s right to self-determination.

For many Greenlanders, the renewed discussion evokes a history of colonial control and a fight for greater autonomy. While Denmark still manages defense and foreign affairs, Greenland’s government has been working toward increased independence, and the notion of being absorbed by the U.S. is seen as a step backward rather than forward.

The Arctic Chessboard

Greenland’s importance extends beyond U.S. and Danish interests. Other global players, particularly China and Russia, have been investing heavily in Arctic affairs. China has referred to itself as a “near-Arctic state” and has sought to establish economic partnerships in Greenland, while Russia has significantly ramped up its military presence in the region.

With the Arctic becoming an increasingly contested space, Greenland has found itself at the crossroads of major global strategies. Whether it remains under Denmark’s rule, moves toward full independence, or becomes entangled in a new geopolitical struggle, its future will have far-reaching consequences.

What Lies Ahead

While Trump’s comments may not immediately translate into action, they have reignited a conversation that won’t be easily dismissed. With growing international interest in Greenland’s resources and strategic position, its leadership faces mounting pressure to navigate an uncertain future.

For now, Greenland remains under Danish sovereignty, but the island’s place on the world stage is only growing. Whether it will continue down the path of autonomy or face renewed offers of acquisition remains to be seen. One thing is certain: Greenland is no longer just a remote Arctic territory—it is a key player in the evolving geopolitical landscape of the 21st century.