Trump described Greenland as critical for America’s “Golden Dome” missile defense project, modeled after Israel’s Iron Dome system, which aims to strengthen protection against potential missile threats from nations such as China and Russia. He emphasized that the United States requires full control over Greenland, not merely treaties or leases, to build infrastructure and enhance military presence. White House spokesperson Karoline Leavitt noted that multiple options, including military measures, are under consideration.
The announcement drew immediate international response. Canadian Prime Minister Mark Carney stated, “As a NATO country, we continue to have a responsibility towards Greenland. We stand fully behind them.” European nations, including France, Germany, Sweden, Norway, Finland, the Netherlands, and the United Kingdom, expressed support for Denmark’s sovereignty and are sending small contingents for regional surveillance. Germany plans a 13-member deployment, while Sweden is participating in military exercises at Denmark’s request.
Meanwhile, a bipartisan US Congressional delegation led by Senator Chris Coons arrived in Greenland to meet Greenlandic and Danish officials, including Prime Minister Mette Frederiksen and Greenlandic Prime Minister Jens-Frederik Nielsen. Coons described the visit as an effort to “listen to the people of Greenland and ease tensions in Washington.” Greenlandic MP Aaja Chemnitz welcomed international support, emphasizing the need for strong allies amid ongoing pressure from Washington since 2019.
US lawmakers remain divided on the issue. Senator Lisa Murkowski has introduced legislation opposing any forced acquisition of Greenland, while other Republican members have proposed bills supporting annexation. Congressman Randy Fine has also introduced the “Greenland Annexation and Statehood Bill,” pending in Congress.
Strategically, Greenland occupies a critical location between North America and Europe, serving as a key missile monitoring hub and a potential gateway for Arctic maritime trade routes opened by climate change. The island is rich in rare minerals, oil, and gas, and US interest is further fueled by Chinese dominance in global rare earth production. Control over Greenland is seen by Washington as both a geopolitical and economic imperative in the Arctic.
A joint working group between Denmark, Greenland, and the US has been formed to discuss security and territorial concerns, though no major agreements have yet been reached.
