Analysis from international relations experts or major geopolitical think tanks

Trump Eyes Greenland for Trillions in Minerals; Denmark Open to Talks, Greenland Insists on Deciding Future

Jan 13, 2025, 06:36 PM

President-elect Donald Trump has reiterated his interest in acquiring Greenland, citing the island's strategic location and rich mineral resources vital for national security. Trump's national security adviser, Waltz, stated that the President-elect is ready to consider all possible options regarding Greenland, including the "force scenario." Trump believes that the United States needs Greenland to gain insight into Russia and China and access to trillions of dollars' worth of rare minerals necessary for the modern economy. In response, Danish Foreign Minister Lars Løkke Rasmussen expressed Denmark's readiness to discuss legitimate American security interests in the Arctic with the incoming administration. Greenland's Prime Minister Mute Egede emphasized that Greenland will decide its own future but is open to enhancing cooperation with the U.S., especially in mining. Meanwhile, Danish intelligence accused Russia of influencing Trump's interest in Greenland, alleging that Russia suggested the idea to him and forged documents indicating Greenland's intent to pursue independence. Greenland holds significant reserves of rare earth minerals, estimated at 1.5 million tonnes, contributing to the geopolitical interest from global powers. The situation underscores the growing geopolitical significance of the Arctic region, with concerns over Russia's military activity and China's ambitions for Greenland's resources.