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Trump's Greenland Acquisition Push and European Response
Donald Trump's renewed push to acquire Greenland during his second presidency, beginning in late 2024, has sparked diplomatic tensions with Denmark and Greenland, leading to strong rejections and international criticism including statements from European leaders.
Why It Matters
Greenland's strategic Arctic location, natural resources, and geopolitical significance in US-China-Russia competition make acquisition attempts a major foreign policy issue affecting NATO relations and Arctic sovereignty.
Timeline
6 Events
Trump Threatens Military Action
2025
During his second presidency, Trump threatens to invade or annex Greenland following continued rejections, triggering the Greenland crisis and international criticism.
Greenland and Denmark Reject Sale
December 2024
Greenland's Prime Minister Múte Egede firmly states Greenland is not for sale and will never be for sale in response to Trump's renewed acquisition push.
Trump Renews Greenland Acquisition Interest
December 22, 2024
President-elect Donald Trump expresses that US ownership and control of Greenland is essential for national security and global freedom, reigniting international debate over Arctic acquisition.
US Provides $12 Million Aid Package to Greenland
2019
Following the failed purchase attempt, the Trump administration announces a $12 million economic development aid package to Greenland and plans to open a US consulate in Nuuk for the first time since 1953.
Trump Cancels Denmark State Visit
August 20, 2019
Trump cancels a planned state visit to Denmark following Frederiksen's rejection of the Greenland purchase proposal, creating a diplomatic incident with the NATO ally.
Trump's First Greenland Purchase Proposal
August 2019
During his first presidency, President Donald Trump expresses interest in purchasing Greenland, calling it strategically valuable. Danish Prime Minister Mette Frederiksen rejects the idea as absurd.