Trump Issues Stark Warning to Greenland Leader Over Denmark Ties
US President Donald Trump delivered a sharp warning to Greenland's prime minister on Wednesday. He criticized the leader for reaffirming Greenland's commitment to Denmark. Trump made his comments during an exchange with reporters about the Arctic territory's political future.
"That's Going to Be a Big Problem for Him"
"That's their problem. I disagree with them. I don't know who he is. Don't know anything about him, but that's going to be a big problem for him," Trump stated. He was responding to questions about Greenland Prime Minister Jens-Frederik Nielsen's recent statements supporting Denmark.
Nielsen had firmly dismissed any possibility of Greenland becoming American territory. He made his position clear during a Tuesday appearance in Copenhagen alongside Danish Prime Minister Mette Frederiksen.
"We face a geopolitical crisis, and if we have to choose between the US and Denmark here and now, then we choose Denmark," Nielsen told Reuters news agency. "We stand united in the Kingdom of Denmark."
Greenland's Shifting Political Landscape
Political dynamics in Greenland appear to be changing. Leaders and residents are increasingly focusing on long-term independence rather than immediate autonomy from Denmark.
Finn Meinel, a lawyer based in Nuuk, offered his perspective on the situation. "In the current circumstances, I think it would be wise for Greenland to commit to Denmark for a very, very long time and remain under the Nato security umbrella," Meinel said.
Trump has been openly advocating for American acquisition of Greenland. He consistently downplays Denmark's role in the territory. The president warns that without US control, the Arctic island could fall under Russian or Chinese influence.
Trump's Direct Appeal to Greenland
When asked if he had made a formal offer to Greenland or Denmark, Trump gave a revealing response. "I haven't done that. But Greenland should make the deal because Greenland does not want to see Russia or China take over."
The president spoke extensively to reporters about Greenland's defense capabilities. He claimed the territory should agree to a deal because its current defenses are inadequate.
"Do you know what their defense is? Two dog sleds. In the meantime, you have Russian destroyers and submarines and China destroyers and submarines all over the place. We're not going to let that happen," Trump asserted.
He added a pointed comment about NATO relationships. "And if it affects Nato, and then it affects Nato, but you know, they need us much more than we need them."
Military Presence and Ownership Claims
Reporters questioned Trump about potential US military expansion on the island. The president revealed American forces are already stationed there.
"We have bases on Greenland. Yeah. A lot of soldiers there right now, if I want," Trump said. He immediately qualified this statement by suggesting current arrangements are insufficient.
"But you need more than that. You need ownership. You really have. You really need title," the president emphasized.
Danish Response and Historical Context
Meanwhile, Danish Prime Minister Mette Frederiksen described her country facing a "decisive moment." She made this assessment amid Trump's repeated threats regarding Greenland.
Greenland operates as an autonomous territory within the Kingdom of Denmark. The island has consistently rejected previous American advances. Copenhagen maintains the firm position that Greenland is not available for purchase.
Contingency Plans and Military Resistance
The Daily Mail reported that Trump has directed senior special forces commanders to prepare contingency plans. These plans would address a possible invasion of Greenland.
This move reportedly faces significant resistance from top military officials. Senior officers are questioning both the legality and political feasibility of such an operation.
According to the report, Trump asked the Joint Special Operations Command to draft an invasion plan. The Joint Chiefs of Staff are pushing back against this proposal. They argue any such operation would be unlawful and lack congressional approval.
"The generals think Trump's Greenland plan is crazy and illegal. So they are trying to deflect him with other major military operations. They say it's like dealing with a five-year-old," a diplomatic source told the Mail.
Military leaders have attempted to redirect Trump's attention. They propose less controversial measures instead of Greenland invasion planning.
"They have tried to distract Trump by talking about less controversial measures, such as intercepting Russian 'ghost' ships or launching a strike on Iran," another source revealed to the Mail.
Russian "ghost" ships refer to a clandestine network of hundreds of vessels. Moscow operates these ships to evade Western sanctions.
