🌍🚨 In a move that's got Europe buzzing, US President Donald Trump reasserted this Monday that the US needs Greenland for national security, even naming Louisiana Governor Jeff Landry as his special envoy to lead the charge.
Trump, who has long eyed Greenland's strategic location and rich minerals, told reporters in Palm Beach, Florida, "We need it for national security. We have to have it."
But Denmark and Greenlanders aren't having it. In a joint statement, Danish Prime Minister Mette Frederiksen and Greenland's Prime Minister Jens-Frederik Nielsen reminded everyone that "Greenland belongs to the Greenlanders," adding "You cannot annex another country."
The EU chimed in too. European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen stressed that Arctic security is a top priority, and that territorial integrity and sovereignty are non-negotiable principles under international law. She promised the EU "will firmly stand with Denmark and Greenlanders."
Adding fuel to the fire, the Trump administration also suspended leases for five major offshore wind projects off the US East Coast —including two by Denmark's state-controlled Orsted—putting extra pressure on Copenhagen and raising eyebrows among clean energy fans.
Why all the fuss?
- Strategic Location: Greenland sits between North America and Europe, making it key for ballistic missile defense.
- Mineral Wealth: The island's untapped resources (rare earths, gold, uranium) could help the US cut reliance on foreign suppliers —a big deal for tech and EV batteries.
- Greenland's Future: While residents have the right to declare independence (per a 2009 agreement), they still rely heavily on Denmark culturally and economically.
For young South and Southeast Asians eyeing global trends, this Arctic saga highlights how geopolitics can reshape resource access and security strategies —even up in the icy North. ❄️
Stay tuned as this tiff between Washington, Copenhagen, and Nuuk unfolds—Greenland might be small, but it's definitely making big waves! 🌊
Reference(s):
Trump says U.S. has to have Greenland, drawing backlash from Europe
cgtn.com
