United States President-elect, Donald Trump, has recently expressed a renewed desire to purchase Greenland, a move that has not been well-received by the Danish. Trump took to Truth Social to declare that having "control" of the island is an "absolute necessity" for the United States.
"For reasons of national security and global freedom, the U.S. views the ownership and control of Greenland as essential," stated the president-elect. Trump's comments coincided with the appointment of Ken Howery as the new ambassador to Denmark, highlighting his background as a PayPal co-founder and his experience as ambassador to Sweden during Trump's first term.
Trump believes Howery "will do an outstanding job representing U.S. interests" and emphasized his reputation as a world-renowned businessman and public servant.
Reactions from Greenland and Denmark
The Prime Minister of Greenland, Mutue Egede, has firmly rejected any notion of selling the island, though he remains open to international cooperation. "Greenland is ours. We are not for sale, nor will we ever be [...] However, we must remain open to trade with the world, especially with our neighbors, as not all trade can go through Denmark," Egede told the Jyllands-Posten newspaper.
Additionally, several political figures in Greenland have labeled Trump's statements as "highly disrespectful." Although the Danish government has not officially commented, this situation echoes the tensions from Trump's first term when he repeatedly expressed interest in acquiring Greenland.
In 2019, Trump attempted to negotiate the purchase in the context of increased Chinese investments in Greenland. He even managed to block Beijing's involvement in building airports on the island. However, Danish Prime Minister Mette Frederiksen's refusal led Trump to cancel an official visit to Denmark, describing it as "very special" but lamenting the lack of willingness to negotiate.
Greenland: A Strategic and Military Asset
With a population of around 56,000, Greenland is an autonomous region within the Kingdom of Denmark. While Copenhagen oversees its foreign and defense policy, Greenland has a local government handling most internal matters. Moreover, the U.S. maintains the Thule Air Base in Greenland, a crucial part of its global radar and defense system.
A Controversial Suggestion: Trading Greenland for Puerto Rico?
Former Department of Homeland Security official, Miles Taylor, revealed that in 2018 Trump proposed the idea of exchanging Greenland for Puerto Rico, citing that "Puerto Rico was dirty and the people were poor." This statement surfaced before a U.S. officials' trip to the island to coordinate recovery efforts after Hurricane Maria.
This is not the first time the U.S. has considered acquiring Greenland. Offers were made in 1867 and 1946, including one from President Harry S. Truman proposing to buy the island for $100 million, both rejected by Denmark. Trump's renewed interest highlights his perception of Greenland as a strategic point in the North Atlantic, vital for U.S. national security and geopolitical ambitions.
The resurgence of Trump's interest in Greenland follows closely on the heels of his threat to demand the return of the Panama Canal.
Understanding Trump's Interest in Greenland
Why does Trump want to buy Greenland?
Trump views Greenland as strategically important for U.S. national security and global geopolitical influence, considering its location in the North Atlantic and the presence of the Thule Air Base.
How has Denmark reacted to the idea of selling Greenland?
Denmark, along with Greenland, has firmly rejected the idea of selling the island, considering it an integral part of the Kingdom of Denmark and expressing openness to international trade instead.
Has the U.S. tried to purchase Greenland before?
Yes, the U.S. has made previous attempts to purchase Greenland, notably in 1867 and 1946, but both offers were declined by Denmark.