June 27, 2025 – Nuuk/Washington — Former President Donald Trump has again raised the idea of acquiring Greenland—a move steeped in geopolitical strategy and economic opportunity. Here’s a deeper look at his motivations and the widespread reaction across the island.
Strategic Motivations
- Military and Security Importance
Greenland sits squarely within the Greenland‑Iceland‑UK (GIUK) gap—a critical corridor for tracking Russian naval and nuclear activity. It hosts the U.S. Pituffik (Thule) Space Base and early-warning defenses. Trump argues that outright ownership would help prevent adversaries like Russia or China from establishing footholds. - Natural Resources and Arctic Routes
As Arctic ice melts, Greenland’s rare earths, oil, gas, lithium, uranium, and open shipping lanes become increasingly valuable. Trump positions the island as key to America’s green‑tech ambitions and global trade competitiveness. - Economic Leverage
The U.S. is considering matching or increasing Denmark’s current annual subsidy (~$600 million–$1 billion), potentially sweetening the deal by offering residents direct payments—rumored up to $10,000 per person—to sway public opinion.
Greenlandic Response
- Overwhelming Rejection
Polls show around 85% of Greenlanders oppose U.S. annexation or purchase.
Prime Minister Múte Bourup Egede has stated emphatically: “Greenland belongs to the Greenlanders… We don’t want to be American or Danish”. - A Vocal Independence Movement
Trump’s push appears to have bolstered Greenland’s long-standing drive for sovereignty. Egede and other leaders now emphasize working toward independence via a planned referendum, rejecting external interference. - Mixed Pragmatism and Pride
Some Greenlandic officials, like Naaja Nathanielsen, acknowledge the appeal of U.S. investment in minerals and security cooperation—but insist this can happen without surrendering sovereignty.
Wider Reactions & International Dynamics
- Denmark’s Defiance
Prime Minister Mette Frederiksen has dismissed Trump’s ambitions as “insulting” and reaffirmed Denmark’s unwavering stance: “Greenland is not for sale” . - Global Concern
NATO allies in Europe—Germany, France, the U.K.—as well as Russia, have expressed unease at any shift in Greenland’s status, citing risks to Arctic stability . - Historical Echoes
Greenland has been the subject of U.S. interest since 1946 when Harry Truman offered $100 million in gold. While NATO agreements grant the U.S. military access, full ownership has never come close.
Bottom Line
Trump’s renewed interest in Greenland reflects legitimate geostrategic and economic considerations—but collides starkly with Greenlandic public sentiment and political will. With most residents and their government united in opposition, the idea of U.S. ownership remains highly unlikely. Yet, the episode has accelerated Greenland’s independence discourse and drawn global attention to this Arctic outpost’s potential and power.
