Former US President Donald Trump issued a sharp warning to Denmark on Sunday. He stated that Denmark has failed for two decades to address what he calls the "Russian threat" in Greenland. Trump declared the time for action has now arrived.
Trump's Social Media Ultimatum
In a post on his TRUTH Social platform, Trump wrote forcefully. He claimed NATO has been advising Denmark for twenty years to remove the Russian presence from Greenland. According to Trump, Denmark has been completely unable to handle this situation. He ended his message with a clear promise: "Now it is time, and it will be done!!!"
The White House and Denmark's foreign ministry did not provide immediate comments to Reuters about these statements.
A Persistent Ambition for Greenland
Trump has consistently expressed his desire to acquire Greenland. He views the autonomous Danish territory as a crucial strategic asset. The former president has not dismissed the possibility of using military force to achieve this goal.
Both Danish and Greenlandic leaders have firmly rejected these advances. They maintain the island is not for sale and its people have no interest in joining the United States.
Economic Pressure as a Tool
On Saturday, Trump outlined a plan to increase tariffs on European allies. He vowed to implement these measures until the United States is permitted to purchase Greenland. This economic pressure represents a key part of his strategy.
The Security Rationale: Russia and China
Trump argues that Greenland's security is vital for American interests. He points to the growing influence of both Russia and China in the Arctic region. The former president insists the US must act to prevent these nations from taking control.
European officials have countered this argument. They note that Greenland already falls under the protection of NATO's collective security agreement. This pact should theoretically address any external threats.
Earlier Statements and Justifications
In January, Trump was equally direct about his intentions. He stated the US would act on Greenland "whether they like it or not." His reasoning remained consistent: if America does not secure the territory, Russia or China will.
Speaking after a meeting with oil executives at the White House, Trump doubled down on his position. "We're not going to have Russia or China as a neighbour," he asserted. He expressed a preference for a negotiated deal but warned of taking "the hard way" if necessary.
Trump drew a comparison to the Iran nuclear deal negotiated under President Obama, which he criticized heavily. He emphasized a belief in ownership over temporary arrangements. "When we own it, we defend it," he stated repeatedly.
The Ownership Argument
When questioned about the need for ownership given existing US military options, Trump was clear. He argued that nations defend ownership with greater commitment than they defend leases. "You have to own it. Countries have to have ownership and you defend ownership. You don't defend leases," he said, according to an ANI report.
Trump also tied his stance to his view of NATO. "That's not going to happen... NATO has to understand that. I'm all for NATO. I saved it. If it weren't for me, NATO would not be there," he added, reinforcing his self-proclaimed role in strengthening the alliance.
The situation highlights ongoing geopolitical tensions in the Arctic. Trump's comments reflect a persistent and confrontational approach to foreign policy and territorial ambition.
