US President Donald Trump has declared that the United States will secure control of Greenland “one way or the other,” warning that rival powers such as Russia and China could move into the Arctic territory if Washington does not act.
Speaking to reporters aboard Air Force One, Trump said Greenland’s strategic location and vast mineral resources make it critical to US national security, particularly amid growing geopolitical competition in the Arctic.
He argued that American involvement is necessary to prevent foreign influence, despite there being no formal claims by either Russia or China on the island.
Diaspora Digital Media reported that the president said he remains open to negotiating a deal with Greenland’s authorities but insisted that the outcome must favor US control.
“I’d love to make a deal,” Trump said, adding that the United States would ultimately ensure Greenland does not fall under the influence of rival powers.
Trump also mocked Greenland’s current defence capabilities, contrasting them with what he described as increased Russian and Chinese military activity in the region.
His remarks drew swift criticism from Denmark, which retains sovereignty over Greenland, and from European allies.
Denmark’s prime minister warned that any attempt by the United States to take Greenland by force would severely damage decades of transatlantic security cooperation and strain NATO unity.
Greenland’s political leaders have repeatedly stressed that the territory’s future must be decided by Greenlanders themselves, noting that the majority of the population opposes becoming part of the United States.
Greenland, a former Danish colony, gained home rule in 1979 and has gradually expanded its autonomy, with some political movements advocating eventual independence rather than closer integration with any foreign power.
Trump’s comments have reignited debate over Arctic security and resource competition, highlighting growing tensions between Washington and its allies over the future of one of the world’s most strategically significant regions.