White House says 'utilizing the US military is always an option' to acquire Greenland
WASHINGTON,DC: The White House announced that acquiring Greenland is now a “priority” for US national security.
White House Press Secretary Karoline Leavitt said the administration is exploring multiple ways to achieve this, including the possible use of the military.
Trump confirms Greenland acquisition plan, military intervention possible
White House Press Secretary Karoline Leavitt said that “President Trump has made it well known that acquiring Greenland is a national security priority of the United States, and it’s vital to deter our adversaries in the Arctic region.”
She also made clear that the military could play a role in the plan, stating, “The president and his team are discussing a range of options to pursue this important foreign policy goal, and of course, utilizing the US Military is always an option at the Commander in Chief’s disposal.”
US looking at different ways to acquire the island
Beyond potential military action, the United States is reportedly considering acquiring Greenland from Denmark or establishing a special partnership known as a “compact of free association.”
Such agreements involve the US providing financial assistance in exchange for the right to maintain military bases, similar to arrangements it has with the Marshall Islands.
President Donald Trump has discussed the idea for months, citing Greenland’s vast mineral resources and strategic location. He recently told NBC News that he was “very serious” about acquiring the territory.
European allies defend Greenland’s sovereignty before US statement
Before the White House released its official statement on Tuesday, January 7, major European allies, including Denmark, had already issued a joint declaration stating, “Greenland belongs to its people,” and vowing that they would “not stop defending” the values of sovereignty and territorial integrity.
Danish Prime Minister Mette Frederiksen also spoke out strongly against the plan. She said, “I have to say this very directly to the United States: It makes absolutely no sense to talk about the need for the United States to take over Greenland.”
She reminded the US that Denmark is a close ally and a member of NATO, stating, “The Kingdom of Denmark, and thus Greenland, is part of NATO and is therefore covered by the alliance’s security guarantee. We already have a defense agreement between the Kingdom and the United States today, which gives the United States wide access to Greenland.”
Frederiksen added, “I would therefore strongly urge the United States to stop the threats against a historically close ally and against another country and another people who have said very clearly that they are not for sale.”
