Trump Insists U.S. Will Acquire Greenland “One Way or the Other,” Citing Rival Powers

President Donald Trump has made a definitive declaration that the United States will take control of Greenland “one way or the other,” citing the territory’s critical strategic importance in the face of increased Russian and Chinese activity in the Arctic.

Speaking to reporters, Trump warned that if the U.S. does not take the territory, Russia or China would—a claim despite neither nation having made any formal claim to Greenland. The mineral-rich island is a self-governing territory under Denmark and is of high strategic value, hosting a key U.S. military base.

Trump stated he was open to a negotiated deal but emphasized that the outcome was inevitable. He dismissed Greenland’s ability to defend itself, contrasting its capabilities with the naval power of its rivals, and downplayed concerns that a forced takeover could fracture the NATO alliance, stating Greenland “needs us much more than we need them.”

His remarks have sparked strong reactions from Denmark and European allies, who view them as a threat. While Greenland has debated greater autonomy from Denmark, its population and political parties largely oppose coming under U.S. control, insisting that the future of the island should be decided solely by its people.