Trump Seeks Control of Greenland and Panama Canal Amid National Security Concerns

Dec 30, 2024, 10:23 PM

Former U.S. President-elect Donald Trump has expressed interest in acquiring Greenland and retaking control of the Panama Canal, citing national security concerns. Trump's former National Security Advisor, Robert O'Brien, supported these ambitions, emphasizing the strategic importance of Greenland due to its proximity to the Arctic, which he described as a future battleground with Russia and China. O'Brien suggested that if Denmark cannot defend Greenland, the U.S. should buy it and integrate it into Alaska. Regarding the Panama Canal, O'Brien criticized Panama for allowing Chinese influence and increasing tolls for U.S. ships, arguing that this violates the neutrality provision of the Panama Canal Treaty. He stated that if Panama does not comply with U.S. demands, the U.S. might need to take back the canal. These statements have prompted reactions from Denmark and Panama, with Denmark announcing plans to increase defense spending for Greenland, and Panama commemorating 25 years of canal sovereignty amid Trump's threats.