U.S. President Donald Trump has revived Washington’s long-running interest in Greenland, with the White House confirming that his administration is reviewing a range of options to secure the strategically important Arctic territory.
White House press secretary Karoline Leavitt said Mr Trump views the acquisition of Greenland as a national security priority, citing the need to counter rival powers in the Arctic. She said the president and his advisers are considering several approaches and that, while negotiations are preferred, all options remain on the table.
In a separate statement, the White House said Mr Trump believes Greenland is critical to U.S. security interests in the Arctic. Greenland is an autonomous territory within the Kingdom of Denmark.
A senior U.S. official said the administration is examining multiple scenarios, including the possibility of purchasing Greenland or negotiating a Compact of Free Association. No details were provided on any potential purchase terms. The official stressed that Mr Trump favours diplomacy and negotiation, describing deal-making as his preferred approach.
Secretary of State Marco Rubio echoed that position during a briefing for congressional leaders, according to U.S. officials. Rubio told lawmakers that the administration is not planning any immediate military action and is focused primarily on a negotiated arrangement with Denmark. He later confirmed that Mr Trump has asked aides to update plans related to Greenland.
The comments prompted a swift response in Copenhagen. Danish Prime Minister Mette Frederiksen accused Washington of issuing “threats” and reiterated that Greenland is not for sale.
Greenland’s government also rejected the remarks. Foreign Minister Vivian Motzfeldt said Greenland and Denmark had requested a meeting with Rubio to address what she described as significant statements from the United States.
Meanwhile, leaders of several major European countries issued a joint statement on Tuesday underlining that decisions about Greenland rest solely with Denmark and the people of Greenland, responding to Mr Trump’s assertion that the United States needs the island for its security.
