The White House has officially confirmed that former President Donald Trump is actively pursuing discussions on acquiring Greenland, reigniting a controversial foreign policy ambition from his first term. The administration views control of the vast Arctic island as a critical national security priority, aimed at countering US adversaries in the strategically vital region.
National Security Priority and Potential Pathways
In a statement released on Tuesday (local time), the White House outlined that President Trump and his team are evaluating a range of options to achieve this goal. The statement explicitly noted that utilizing the US military remains an option at the commander-in-chief's disposal. However, officials emphasized that diplomacy is the preferred first course of action.
A senior US official revealed the administration is considering multiple pathways. These include an outright purchase of Greenland from Denmark or establishing a Compact of Free Association, which would grant the US significant influence without formally incorporating the territory. No specific purchase price has been discussed publicly. "The president and his team are discussing a range of options to pursue this important foreign policy goal," the White House statement said, adding, "He loves deals."
Firm Opposition from Allies and Greenland Itself
The push is meeting with firm and repeated resistance. Greenland, an autonomous territory of Denmark, has stated it does not wish to become part of the United States. On Tuesday, Denmark, Canada, and several major European powers reiterated that the island belongs to its people. Any US military action against Denmark, a fellow NATO member, would send severe shockwaves through the alliance and further strain transatlantic relations, as reported by Reuters.
US Secretary of State Marco Rubio sought to calm fears during a classified briefing to lawmakers on Monday. According to The New York Times, Rubio clarified that the administration's goal is a purchase, not a seizure, and recent rhetoric does not signal an imminent invasion. Despite this assurance, some Republicans and Democrats have warned the US must respect Danish sovereignty and its NATO commitments.
Strategic Motives and Unwavering Interest
Administration officials argue that Greenland's strategic value cannot be overstated. The island sits at the center of intensifying great-power competition in the Arctic, involving both Russia and China. Furthermore, it holds vast untapped reserves of rare earth minerals and other resources critical for advanced technology and defense manufacturing.
The senior US official indicated that Trump's interest in acquiring Greenland "is not going away." This renewed focus follows the recent US arrest of Venezuelan President Nicolas Maduro, an event that Trump allies believe has emboldened his broader, more assertive foreign policy posture. The White House's confirmation signals that despite European opposition and Greenland's own stance, the prospect of US expansion into the Arctic remains a live policy discussion within Trump's circle.
