On Thursday, March 13, United States President Trump received NATO Secretary General Mark Rutte at the White House. During the meeting, Trump expressed to Rutte that American control over Greenland is necessary to enhance international security. Trump also showed confidence in the United States acquiring Greenland.
In response to a reporter’s question about the vision of the United States obtaining Greenland, Trump told Rutte, “I think it’s going to happen. I just felt that I hadn’t been thinking about it much before, but I’m sitting with someone who may play a significant role. You know, Mark, we need it (Greenland) for international security, not just security, but international (security).”
Furthermore, Trump hinted at various forces roaming near Greenland, stating, “We have to be careful, we will talk to you about it.”
When directly asked about the prospects of owning Greenland, Trump said, “I think it’s going to happen.”
Rutte, however, responded that he would not engage in discussions about whether Greenland should join the United States, as he did not want to involve NATO in the matter.
“When it comes to the High North region and the Arctic, you’re absolutely right. The Chinese are now using these routes. We know that the Russians are already armed in the area,” Rutte added.
Trump then expressed, “The entire (Arctic) region is becoming very important for many reasons. You know, these routes lead directly to Asia, Russia, ships are everywhere, we must provide protection. So, we must come to an agreement on this.”
Since taking office on January 20, Trump has continuously emphasized the issue of the United States controlling Greenland. His remarks on Thursday suggest that he may hope for NATO’s involvement in taking over Greenland.
Outgoing Greenlandic Prime Minister Mute Egede rejected Trump’s proposal. He posted on Facebook, “The US President once again expresses the idea of swallowing us up”, “Enough.”
Trump mentioned that Denmark refused to discuss this topic and he may send more US troops to strengthen the American base in Greenland.
“We’ve been dealing with Denmark, we’ve been dealing with Greenland, we have to do this. For national security, we really need it. I think that’s why NATO may have to get involved in some way because we really need Greenland for national security. This is very important,” he said.
Greenland’s strategic location and abundant mineral resources could benefit the United States. The island is situated on the shortest route from Europe to North America, making it crucial for the US ballistic missile early warning system.