US President Donald Trump reiterated his desire to bring Greenland under American sovereignty during his address to Congress on Tuesday, portraying a future of prosperity and security for the island’s residents. Greenland, an autonomous territory of Denmark, has long been of strategic interest to the US.
“We will ensure your safety, we will make you wealthy, and together, we will elevate Greenland to heights beyond imagination,” Trump declared.
Describing Greenland as a “very small population” inhabiting a “very, very large piece of land,” he emphasized its crucial role in military security.
Despite Trump’s assurances, opinion polls indicate that most Greenlanders oppose joining the US, though many support eventual independence from Denmark.
Even before the start of his second presidential term, Trump expressed interest in incorporating Greenland into the United States. However, Denmark, a key NATO ally, has consistently stated that Greenland is not for sale.
Greenland’s location and abundant mineral resources make it a valuable asset. Situated along the shortest route between Europe and North America, it plays a critical role in the US ballistic missile warning system.
“We need Greenland for global security,” Trump asserted.
During his speech, he also delivered a direct message to the people of Greenland: “We fully support your right to determine your own future, and should you choose, we welcome you as part of the United States of America.”
He noted that his administration was actively engaging with all relevant parties to facilitate Greenland’s potential inclusion, adding with a chuckle, “I believe we’re going to get it—one way or another, we’re gonna get it,” prompting laughter from Republican lawmakers.
Trump’s renewed interest in Greenland has reignited discussions about its independence, with calls emerging for accelerated secession talks with Denmark.
However, Greenland’s ruling party, Inuit Ataqatigiit, has urged caution, stating it will not rush an independence referendum following the upcoming general election on March 11. The party highlighted concerns over economic stability and social welfare.
Denmark’s UN Ambassador Christina Markus Lassen reaffirmed that the decision ultimately rests with the people of Greenland. “Their future is for them to decide,” she said on Monday. “Independence is within their reach, and they have the right to self-determination.”
Lassen also acknowledged the Trump administration’s concerns regarding Arctic security. “Given the current geopolitical climate, we recognize the importance of reinforcing security in the Arctic,” she noted. “Denmark has been working closely with NATO and the US on this matter for years.”
She emphasized Denmark’s strong transatlantic ties with the US, adding, “For decades, we have collaborated closely on security matters related to Greenland and the Arctic.”
