Trump doubles down on Greenland interest: ‘We need it for international security’

In his first Oval Office press conference since taking office on January 20th, President Donald J. Trump reiterated his interest in Greenland, as he talked up the island’s strategic importance for international security. Speaking while signing a flurry of executive orders, Trump suggested that Greenland could play a pivotal role in countering growing Russian and Chinese military activity in the Arctic.

“Greenland is a wonderful place. We need it for international security, and I’m sure that Denmark will come along,” Trump said, referencing Denmark’s control over Greenland. He argued that the arrangement is financially burdensome for Denmark and questioned the satisfaction of Greenland’s residents under Danish rule.

“I think it’s costing them a lot of money to maintain it, to keep it. The people of Greenland are not happy with Denmark. You know, I think they’re happy with us,” he said, mentioning his son Donald Trump Jr’s recent visit to Greenland, which he claims was warmly received by locals.

Trump made it clear that his interest in Greenland is driven by its strategic location in the Arctic, particularly as a counter to increased military activity by rival powers.

“You have Russian boats all over the place, you have China boats all over the place, warships, and they can’t maintain it,” he said.

Although Trump stopped short of detailing specific plans for Greenland, his comments suggest the issue could become a key point in his foreign policy agenda. “We’ll see what happens,” he concluded.