Donald Trump is back at it with another out-there idea: buying Greenland. Yep, you read that right. The former U.S. president’s suggestion has stirred up quite the drama, especially with Denmark’s Prime Minister.
Greenland, A Hot Topic?
Trump wants Greenland, a self-governing territory under Denmark, to be part of the United States. Why? He claims it’s all about national security and global freedom.
A Little Greenland History
Greenland was a Danish colony until 1953. Since then, it’s gained more autonomy, and by 2009, it got the green light to run its domestic affairs while still being part of Denmark.
This isn’t Trump’s first attempt at this, though. Back in 2019, while he was still president, he floated the same idea. Denmark’s PM, Mette Frederiksen, shot it down, calling the idea absurd.
Greenland’s own Prime Minister, Mute Egede, chimed in recently to make one thing clear: Greenland is not for sale.
Why Does Trump Want Greenland So Badly?
According to Arctic expert Marc Jacobsen, Trump’s obsession isn’t just random. Greenland has serious strategic value.
“to maintain or even expand its presence while keeping China at bay,” Jacobsen told High North News.
The U.S., Denmark, and Greenland’s Strategic Bond
The U.S. already has deep ties with Greenland, thanks to its northernmost military base, Thule Air Base, located on Greenland’s northwest coast.
But here’s the kicker: in recent years, China’s been making moves in Greenland, investing in mining projects and even bidding on a contract to expand airports back in 2018. This raised eyebrows in both Denmark and the U.S., with former Danish PM Lars Løkke Rasmussen stepping in.
Arctic Race Heats Up
As the Arctic gains more attention globally, it’s no surprise the U.S. wants to keep its interests secure. Ulrik Pram Gad, an expert at the University of Aalborg, explains, “America isn’t just playing defense here. They’re trying to get ahead of competitors like China.”
Bottom Line
Trump’s Greenland idea might sound bizarre, but it highlights a bigger game: global power struggles over the Arctic. For now, though, Greenland’s leaders have made their stance crystal clear—this icy land isn’t going anywhere.