Florida Congressman Randy Fine on Monday tabled the “Greenland Annexation and Statehood Act,” a bill that authorizes the US President to take steps deemed necessary to acquire Greenland, including initiating negotiations with the Kingdom of Denmark. The proposal was announced through a press release issued by Fine’s office.
The bill empowers President Trump to pursue the annexation or acquisition of Greenland as a US territory and, following such acquisition, submit a report to Congress detailing legal and administrative changes required to grant the island full statehood. The move comes amid renewed rhetoric from Trump, who has repeatedly stated that Greenland must come under US control “one way or another.”
Fine framed the proposal as a national security imperative. “Greenland is a vital national security asset,” he said, arguing that control of the Arctic territory is crucial to safeguarding key shipping routes and strengthening the United States’ strategic posture in the region. He warned that rival powers, particularly China and Russia, are seeking greater influence in the Arctic as ice melt accelerates.
Greenland’s strategic value has grown in recent years due to climate change, which has made Arctic sea routes increasingly navigable. The Northern Sea Route significantly reduces travel time between Europe and Asia, offering economic and military advantages. The island is also believed to hold substantial reserves of rare earth minerals, oil, and natural gas—resources critical to modern technology and defense industries.
However, the proposal has drawn sharp opposition. Greenland’s elected leaders have categorically rejected any idea of a US takeover, stating that the territory’s future is not open for negotiation. Denmark, which retains sovereignty over Greenland’s foreign and defense policy, has also dismissed previous US overtures.
Reports in British media claim Trump has asked US defense officials to explore options for acquiring Greenland, including military planning. Those reports suggest senior military leaders view the idea as legally indefensible and operationally unrealistic. A diplomatic source quoted by the Daily Mail described internal discussions as “absurd,” reflecting deep resistance within the Pentagon.
Political analysts note the timing of the proposal coincides with domestic pressures facing Republicans ahead of US midterm elections, with critics suggesting the Greenland push is designed to divert attention from economic concerns at home.
Despite the bill’s introduction, its prospects in Congress remain uncertain, with significant legal, diplomatic, and constitutional hurdles standing in the way.
