Official announcements from the U.S., Denmark, or Greenland governments or credible news outlets

Trump Revives Greenland Acquisition Plan, Citing Rare Earth Minerals and Strategic Arctic Importance

Jan 8, 2025, 04:21 PM

President-elect Donald Trump has reignited interest in acquiring Greenland, a mineral-rich and strategically significant territory of Denmark. Trump stated that Greenland could become part of the United States, saying, 'We're going to treat you well,' and has not ruled out using military or economic measures to achieve this. His son, Donald Trump Jr., recently visited the island, heightening speculation about U.S. intentions. Greenland, home to rare earth minerals, oil, and natural gas, is seen as critical for U.S. national security and economic interests, particularly due to its Arctic location and proximity to key shipping routes. Historically, the U.S. has sought to purchase Greenland, including a 2019 attempt by Trump, but past offers were rejected by Denmark. Greenland's government, led by Prime Minister Múte B. Egede, has reaffirmed that the island is not for sale, emphasizing its autonomy and push for eventual independence. Denmark provides an annual subsidy of nearly $1 billion to Greenland, which has a population of about 57,000. Denmark's Prime Minister Mette Frederiksen also reiterated that Greenland's future lies with its people. The U.S. military already maintains a presence at the Pituffik Space Base in Greenland, underscoring the island's strategic importance. The renewed interest in Greenland reflects broader geopolitical competition in the Arctic, with climate change opening new opportunities for resource exploitation and navigation.