By Charles Maduka
United States President Donald Trump has declared that the US will take control of Greenland “one way or another,” warning that Russia and China could step in if Washington fails to act.
Trump said gaining control of the mineral-rich Danish territory is vital to America’s national security, especially with growing military activities by Russia and China in the Arctic region. He insisted that the US could not afford to allow rival powers gain influence over the island.
Speaking to reporters aboard Air Force One, Trump said he was open to negotiations with Greenland but made it clear that the outcome would favour the United States. According to him, “If we don’t take Greenland, Russia or China will,” even though neither country has formally claimed the territory.
The comments have sparked strong reactions from Denmark and other European allies, who expressed concern over Trump’s remarks. Greenland, which has hosted a US military base since World War II, was a Danish colony until 1953 and later gained home rule, with discussions ongoing about further independence from Denmark.
Despite Trump’s stance, most political parties and residents in Greenland have repeatedly said they do not want to be under US control, insisting that the island’s future should be decided by Greenlanders themselves. Denmark’s prime minister has warned that any attempt to seize Greenland by force would severely damage long-standing transatlantic security ties, a concern Trump dismissed by saying Greenland needs the US more than the other way around.
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