Donald Trump Reignites Greenland Controversy
Donald Trump has reignited his controversial pursuit to acquire Greenland, reportedly engaging in a heated phone call with Danish Prime Minister Mette Frederiksen. According to senior European officials, the fiery exchange has sent shockwaves through Denmark’s leadership.
Sources revealed that the 45-minute conversation, held last week while Trump was still president-elect, was aggressive and confrontational. Frederiksen’s firm refusal to entertain the idea of selling Greenland to the United States reportedly angered Trump, prompting him to escalate his demands.
“The intent was very clear,” said one person briefed on the call, as reported by the Financial Times. “They want it. The Danes are now in crisis mode.” Another source described Denmark’s reaction as one of sheer alarm: “The Danes are utterly freaked out by this.”
Trump Threatens Tariffs Against Denmark
A former Danish official characterized the call as a “very tough conversation,” in which Trump allegedly threatened Denmark with targeted tariffs. The official added that Trump’s tone was firm and uncompromising.
The Financial Times quoted officials describing the call as “horrendous” and “potentially very dangerous.” One source noted, “Before, it was hard to take it seriously. But now, it feels real and alarming.”
Why Trump Wants Greenland
Trump has long expressed interest in acquiring Greenland, citing its strategic importance and vast natural resources. During a press conference last month, he emphasized that Greenland is crucial for “economic security” and hinted at its value for U.S. military operations.
The Arctic island, spanning an impressive 836,300 square miles (2,166,007 square kilometers), is rich in oil, gas, and raw materials essential for green technology. Trump has also refused to rule out the possibility of using U.S. military force to take control of the territory.
Denmark and Greenland Push Back
Prime Minister Frederiksen remains steadfast in her rejection of Trump’s demands, stating that Greenland is “not for sale.” She emphasized, “Seen through the eyes of the Danish government, Greenland belongs to the Greenlanders.”
Greenland, an autonomous territory within the Kingdom of Denmark since 1953, introduced home rule in 1979. While Denmark retains control over its foreign and security policies, Greenland has its own parliament and growing aspirations for independence.
Greenland’s Struggle for Independence
Greenland’s Prime Minister, Múte Egede, recently reaffirmed the territory’s desire for self-determination. In his New Year’s speech, Egede spoke about breaking free from “the shackles of colonialism.”
Following a visit from Donald Trump Jr. earlier this year, Egede made Greenland’s position clear: “We are Greenlanders. We don’t want to be Americans. We don’t want to be Danish either. Greenland’s future will be decided by Greenland.”
Conclusion
Trump’s renewed interest in Greenland has put Denmark on high alert and sparked global attention. With its vast natural resources and strategic importance, Greenland continues to be at the center of a geopolitical tug-of-war. As Denmark resists U.S. pressure, Greenland’s push for independence adds another layer of complexity to this unfolding saga.
