Trump says US will take control of Greenland, calls it a security priority

US President Donald Trump said on Congress that the United States will take control of Greenland “one way or the other,” escalating tensions over the self-governing Danish territory.

Addressing a joint session of Congress, Trump expressed support for Greenlanders’ right to self-determination, stating that the US would welcome them as part of the country if they chose to join.

“We strongly support your right to determine your own future, and if you choose, we welcome you into the United States of America,” Trump said. He pledged that the US would ensure Greenland’s security and economic prosperity, saying, “We will keep you safe, we will make you rich, and together, we will take Greenland to heights like you have never thought possible before.”

However, Trump also framed Greenland’s strategic importance as a national security priority, arguing that American control was essential.

“We need Greenland for national security and even international security, and we’re working with everybody involved to try and get it,” he said. “It’s a very small population, but a very, very large piece of land. And very, very important for military security. One way or the other, we’re going to get it.”

The remarks marked a renewed push for US influence over the Arctic territory. Denmark has repeatedly rejected US proposals to acquire Greenland, first floated by Trump in 2019 and revived in recent months.

In January, Donald Trump Jr. visited Greenland’s capital, Nuuk, in a high-profile trip billed as personal but widely viewed as political. Trump acknowledged his son’s visit on social media, calling it a “deal that must happen.”

“Don Jr. and my Reps landing in Greenland. The reception has been great. They, and the Free World, need safety, security, strength, and PEACE! This is a deal that must happen. MAGA. MAKE GREENLAND GREAT AGAIN!” he posted.

The Trump administration has cited Greenland’s location as key to countering Russian and Chinese influence in the Arctic. However, Danish officials have dismissed the idea of a US acquisition, insisting that Greenland remains a sovereign, autonomous territory.