BackInternational Relations
US–EU Tensions Escalate as Trump Renews Push for Greenland Acquisition
President Trump has revived his interest in acquiring Greenland from Denmark, citing national security amid threats from China and Russia, leading to rejections from Danish and Greenlandic officials and heightened US-EU tensions.
Why It Matters
Greenland's strategic Arctic location and resources are vital for global security; US pursuit challenges Denmark's sovereignty, NATO alliances, and international law, potentially escalating geopolitical rivalries.
Timeline
11 Events
Greenland Parliament Unanimously Rejects
January 2025
Five parties in Greenland parliament unanimously rejected US annexation proposal.[1]
Trump Reiterates Intention Before Press
January 21, 2025
In Oval Office, President Trump reiterated desire to acquire Greenland for 'international security' against China and Russia threats, noted high costs for Denmark, did not rule out military force.[1]
Greenland PM Rejects Sale
December 22, 2024
Greenland PM Múte Egede firmly rejected notion, stating 'Greenland is not for sale and will never be'.[3]
Danish PM Reiterates Rejection
January 7, 2025
Danish PM Mette Frederiksen stated 'Greenland is not for sale' and urged calm.[5]
Trump Jr. Visits Greenland
January 7, 2025
Donald Trump Jr. visited Nuuk on Trump Force One for symbolic private visit.[5]
Trump Affirms Need for Greenland
January 5, 2025
President Trump stated 'we need Greenland from the standpoint of national security'; aides echoed potential seizure.[6]
Trump-Elect Renews Call for US Control
December 22, 2024
President-elect Trump stated US ownership of Greenland is 'essential' and 'absolute necessity' for national security and global freedom.[3]
US Announces $12M Aid to Greenland
May 2020
US provided $12 million aid package for economic development and planned consulate reopening in Nuuk, first since 1953; welcomed by Greenland but angered some Danes.[4]
Danish PM Rejects Sale as Absurd
August 20, 2019
Danish PM Mette Frederiksen rejected sale as 'absurd'; Trump canceled planned state visit to Denmark.[2][4]
Trump First Proposes Greenland Purchase
August 18, 2019
President Trump confirmed interest in buying Greenland for strategic reasons, discussed with advisors; called 'strategically nice'.[2][3]
US Historical Offers to Buy Greenland
1867, 1910, 1946
United States offered to purchase Greenland from Denmark in 1867 (with Iceland), 1910, and 1946 for $100 million under President Truman, all refused.[1][2]