Daijiworld Media Network - Washington
Washington, Jan 10: US President Donald Trump has once again hinted at the possible use of force to seize Greenland, brushing aside Denmark’s sovereignty over the autonomous Arctic island and triggering fresh concern among European allies.
Speaking at a White House meeting on Friday, Trump said the United States would “do something” about Greenland regardless of Denmark’s objections. “We are going to do something on Greenland, whether they like it or not,” he said, adding that he preferred a negotiated settlement but would not rule out tougher measures. “I would like to make a deal the easy way. But if we don’t do it the easy way, we’re going to do it the hard way,” he remarked.
Trump argued that control of the mineral-rich island was critical for US national security, citing increased military activity by Russia and China in the Arctic region. “We’re not going to have Russia or China occupy Greenland. That’s what they’re going to do if we don’t,” he claimed, although neither country has laid any formal claim to the island.
The remarks have sparked outrage in Denmark and among other European allies. Denmark already allows a US military presence on Greenland, including a key American air base. Danish Prime Minister Mette Frederiksen warned that any attempt to invade Greenland would spell the end of NATO and undermine the post-World War II security order.
Trump, however, appeared to downplay Denmark’s concerns, even making light of its historical claims. “I’m a fan of Denmark. They’ve been very nice to me,” he said, before adding, “The fact that they had a boat land there 500 years ago doesn’t mean that they own the land.”
Greenland, which has broad autonomy but remains part of the Kingdom of Denmark, has repeatedly stated that it is not for sale. Leaders in Europe have also cautioned that any coercive action against a NATO ally would severely damage transatlantic relations.
Meanwhile, US Secretary of State Marco Rubio is scheduled to meet next week with Denmark’s foreign minister and representatives from Greenland, as diplomatic efforts intensify to defuse the escalating tension.