Trump Revives Greenland Ambition with Aggressive Tactics
President Donald Trump has dramatically reignited his pursuit of Greenland, making it a central focus of his second presidential term. This renewed push follows his successful ouster of Venezuela's leader, which emboldened him to test foreign-policy norms more aggressively. In recent days, Trump has ramped up pressure on European leaders, aiming to bring the world's largest island under U.S. control.
Escalating Threats and European Alarm
Trump is employing a combination of economic threats and military posturing to achieve his goal. He recently announced a 10% tariff on imports from several European countries, specifically targeting Denmark to force a sale of Greenland. These tariffs will increase to 25% by June 1 and remain until a deal is reached for what he calls the "complete and total purchase" of the island.
This move has stunned even some of his own aides, who now believe it could make negotiations with Europeans nearly impossible. European leaders are taking these threats more seriously than during Trump's first term, according to top diplomats. They are actively working the phones with Trump and his inner circle in a bid to de-escalate the situation.
Senior administration officials have tried to reassure European allies that there are currently no military plans to take over Greenland. However, Trump has repeatedly declined to rule out military action, leaving that specter on the table and creating widespread concern.
Historical Fascination and Strategic Motivations
Trump's interest in Greenland is not new. As a real-estate developer, he has long been enticed by the idea of acquiring this vast territory, which is more than three times the size of Texas. Such an acquisition would be the largest since the U.S. bought Alaska from Russia in 1867.
His motivations are multifaceted:
- National Security: Trump claims Greenland is vital for deterring China and Russia in the Arctic region. He argues that NATO would be stronger with Greenland under U.S. control and links it to his planned Golden Dome missile-defense system.
- Economic Interests: Greenland possesses untapped reserves of rare-earth minerals, offering significant economic benefits. Trump and his advisers have discussed offering Greenlanders more money and better mineral rights than they currently receive from Denmark.
- Legacy Building: Trump admires historical figures like President James Polk, who oversaw major territorial expansion. Acquiring Greenland aligns with his goal of expanding American territory and cementing his presidential legacy.
From Failed Attempt to Renewed Determination
This current push follows a failed effort during Trump's first term. In 2018, he asked his national security adviser, John Bolton, to explore buying Greenland after billionaire Ronald Lauder suggested the idea. Bolton researched updating the 1951 Defense of Greenland Agreement, which grants U.S. military rights in the region.
However, when The Wall Street Journal broke the story in August 2019, the plan quickly unraveled. Danish Prime Minister Mette Frederiksen called the idea "absurd," and Trump canceled a planned visit to Copenhagen. Now, back in office, Trump is more determined than ever, with fewer advisers urging caution.
Growing European Resistance and Public Outcry
Trump's aggressive tactics are uniting European resistance. Over the weekend, thousands of people gathered in Copenhagen to protest outside the U.S. Embassy. Demonstrators wore red hats parodying the MAGA slogan with the phrase "Make America Go Away," expressing bafflement and anger at Trump's actions.
One demonstrator with family in Greenland stated, "If it is just all rhetoric in the U.S., it is not felt that way here. People are very afraid." European nations have also sent military and diplomatic assets to Greenland to deter U.S. acquisition attempts.
Uncertain Outcomes and Internal Concerns
Despite the bold threats, U.S. officials confirm that no final decision has been made on how to proceed. This contrasts with the Venezuela mission, which had a steady military presence in place. Some of Trump's advisers privately worry that the tariffs and saber-rattling have made a deal to buy Greenland difficult, if not impossible, to achieve.
Trump's recent comments add to the uncertainty. He told Norway that he no longer needs to think "purely of peace" after not winning the Nobel Peace Prize, introducing a new justification for his aggression. As he enters the second year of his final term, Trump is focused on moving swiftly to secure his legacy, but the path to acquiring Greenland remains fraught with diplomatic challenges.
