Trump Aide Backs Greenland Takeover, Citing Denmark's Weak Military
Stephen Miller, a senior advisor to US President Donald Trump, has publicly defended the administration's controversial proposal to annex Greenland. Miller argued that Denmark lacks the military and economic strength to properly control the vast Arctic territory.
In a recent interview with Fox News, Miller stated that Denmark possesses a tiny military and economy. He claimed this makes the country incapable of defending Greenland effectively. Miller serves as both White House Deputy Chief of Staff and Homeland Security Advisor.
Miller's Justification for US Control
Miller emphasized the growing importance of polar competition in global affairs. He said adversaries are increasingly focusing resources on controlling Arctic navigation and travel lanes. Greenland's size makes it strategically valuable, according to his assessment.
The Trump aide presented several arguments for why the United States should control Greenland:
- Denmark cannot defend the territory properly
- Denmark cannot improve or inhabit Greenland adequately
- American taxpayers unfairly subsidize European defense
Miller specifically mentioned that Greenland is twenty-five percent larger than Alaska. He called the current arrangement unfair to American taxpayers who bear defense costs while Denmark maintains ownership.
Trump's Tariff Threats Against European Nations
President Trump has taken concrete steps to pressure European countries over their opposition to US plans for Greenland. On Saturday, he announced import tariffs targeting eight European nations.
The tariff plan includes these key elements:
- A ten percent tariff begins on February 1
- The tariff applies to Denmark, Norway, Sweden, France, Germany, the UK, Netherlands, and Finland
- Rates increase to twenty-five percent on June 1 without a Greenland deal
Trump communicated this threat through his Truth Social platform. He demanded complete purchase of Greenland by the United States. These countries recently deployed troops to Greenland following Trump's renewed takeover comments.
NATO Faces Crisis Over Arctic Resources
The Trump administration's aggressive stance has created significant tension within NATO. Since returning to power last year, Trump has repeatedly pushed for control of Greenland. He claims this move is essential for US national security.
Trump has not ruled out using military force to acquire Greenland. He previously mentioned obtaining the territory the easy way or the hard way. Many interpreted this as references to either purchasing the island or applying military pressure.
These actions have undermined the military alliance's foundation. They have caused a serious rift between Washington and its European allies. The future of NATO now faces uncertainty due to these developments.
Protests Erupt in Greenland and Denmark
Thousands of people have taken to the streets in both Greenland and Denmark to protest Trump's comments. In Nuuk, Greenland's capital, Prime Minister Jens-Frederik Nielsen joined demonstrators marching toward the US consulate.
Non-government organizations in Greenland and Denmark organized these protests. The public displays of opposition reflect growing concern about US intentions toward the Arctic territory. The situation continues to develop as diplomatic tensions escalate.
