Trump renews push to bring Greenland under U.S. control, drawing allied opposition

President Trump has renewed efforts to make Greenland part of the United States, telling reporters, “We are going to do something on Greenland whether they like it or not,” and threatening economic penalties for European countries that side with Denmark against his demands.

Administration officials say the move is justified by security concerns and some aides dispute that it amounts to conquest — Gov. Jeff Landry told Fox News, “We don't go in there trying to conquer anybody” — but the president’s rhetoric and threats of higher import taxes have prompted protests in Denmark and Greenland and drawn criticism from allies and some Republicans. The president has rebuffed diplomatic approaches, including declining a request from Norway’s prime minister for a conversation, and has invoked personal and business motivations for ownership; he has previously pursued a plan to buy Greenland and at times suggested trading Puerto Rico for it.

The Danish government has enlisted European partners to speak out and to send forces for exercises in Greenland, and Greenland’s citizens have said they do not want to join the United States. It remains unclear whether the administration will move from threats and economic pressure to coercive action; critics say the idea is unprecedented for a U.S. campaign against a loyal ally, and the debate over next steps is ongoing.

Key Topics

World, Donald Trump, Greenland, Denmark, Nato, Jeff Landry