Trump Considers Military Option for Greenland, Sparking International Tensions
U.S. President Donald Trump is reportedly weighing a range of options, including military action, to gain control of Greenland, the self-governing, mineral-rich Danish territory in the Arctic. The White House said the move is being considered as part of a broader national security strategy to counter rivals like Russia and China.
White House Press Secretary Karoline Leavitt emphasized that acquiring Greenland is a “national security priority,” adding that the use of U.S. military forces remains an option at the president’s disposal. Secretary of State Marco Rubio reportedly told lawmakers that Trump’s preferred approach is to purchase Greenland from Denmark, and no immediate invasion is planned.
Denmark strongly opposed the idea, warning that any military move would “stop everything,” including NATO cooperation and nearly 80 years of transatlantic security ties. Greenlandic officials also rejected the proposal. Prime Minister Jens-Frederik Nielsen insisted the island is not for sale, and only its 57,000 residents should determine its future.
The issue has drawn widespread international attention. Leaders from the United Kingdom, France, Germany, Italy, Poland, and Spain voiced support for Denmark, reaffirming the principles of sovereignty and territorial integrity. French President Emmanuel Macron and British Prime Minister Keir Starmer sought to downplay the tensions during peace talks in Paris.
U.S. lawmakers from both parties expressed concern. Democrat Senator Ruben Gallego proposed a resolution to block any military action, while Republican lawmakers, including House Speaker Mike Johnson and Senators Jerry Moran and Don Bacon, warned that such a move could endanger NATO and U.S. alliances.
Greenland hosts a U.S. military presence at the Pituffik Space Base, but residents and local organizations condemned Trump’s remarks, calling them “unacceptable” in a civilized world.
Trump has hinted at acquiring Greenland since his first term, citing its strategic importance and resources. The Danish government recently invested approximately $14 billion in Arctic security, highlighting the geopolitical sensitivity of the region.
