Trump Advocates for US Ownership of Greenland Amid Global Tensions

Sat Jan 10 2026 23:55:18 GMT+0200 (Eastern European Standard Time)

In a recent statement, Trump emphasized the strategic importance of Greenland, suggesting that the US should take ownership to prevent influence from Russia and China, which has drawn strong reactions from Denmark and Greenland.

President Trump has declared that the United States must 'own' Greenland to secure it from potential Russian and Chinese expansion. This controversial remark comes amid diplomatic tensions, as Denmark and Greenland firmly reject any suggestion of selling the territory. Trump argues that ownership is essential for defense, contrasting the existing lease agreements and highlighting Greenland's military and resource significance.

President Donald Trump says the US needs to own Greenland to prevent Russia and China from doing so. He asserted, Countries have to have ownership and you defend ownership, you don't defend leases and we'll have to defend Greenland, during a recent press conference.

Trump suggested that the situation could be resolved either the easy way or the hard way, referencing previous discussions around purchasing the semi-autonomous territory of Denmark. Despite these claims, both Denmark and Greenland have firmly stated that the territory is not for sale. Denmark even indicated that any military action could jeopardize the transatlantic defense alliance.

Although Greenland is the most sparsely populated territory, its strategic position between North America and the Arctic enhances its importance for military readiness and resource extraction. Trump reiterated claims about increased Russian and Chinese naval presence, without providing evidence, stating Greenland is vital for US national security.

Currently, more than 100 US military personnel are stationed at the Pituffik base in Greenland, a facility under American responsibility since World War II. The US has the existing capability to send additional troops to Greenland under agreements with Denmark.

Trump expressed his view that lease agreements are ineffective for long-term security, stating, Countries can't make nine-year deals or even 100-year deals, insisting ownership is necessary. He emphasized, I love the people of China. I love the people of Russia, but added, I don't want them as a neighbour in Greenland, not going to happen.

Reactions from NATO allies have been supportive of Denmark, with numerous countries affirming that only Denmark and Greenland can determine their interactions regarding territory. They emphasized the importance of collective action concerning Arctic security and respecting international principles, including sovereignty and territorial integrity.

Concerns about Greenland's future were amplified following Trump's controversial military actions in Venezuela, hinting at an aggressive foreign policy stance. Trump had previously attempted to buy Greenland in 2019, but was turned down.

Interest in Greenland's vast natural resources, including rare earth minerals and potential oil reserves, is growing as climate change renders these resources more accessible.