U.S. Eyes Greenland Again in Bold New Plan

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Josephine Wismar

U.S. Eyes Greenland Again in Bold New Plan

The U.S. is said to be exploring a plan to make it appealing for Greenland to join the United States, reviving debates about control, sovereignty, and the future of the Arctic region. 

Washington Considers New Approach to Greenland

Reports from several American media outlets indicate that the U.S. government is developing a plan aimed at buying Greenland from Denmark or offering arrangements that would make Greenlanders more open to joining the American system. According to diplomats cited by The Wall Street Journal and The New York Times, the idea was raised during a private meeting among senior members of Congress.

At that meeting, U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio reportedly addressed questions about whether the United States might use military force in regions such as Mexico or Greenland. He downplayed the possibility of direct military intervention but emphasized that all options remain on the table.

For now, most analysts believe that the American administration’s focus is on building economic and diplomatic incentives rather than military action.

Military Involvement Considered a Last Resort

The White House has confirmed in a written statement to Reuters that the use of the U.S. military is always a possibility for the commander-in-chief. However, no concrete signs indicate preparations for a military operation in Greenland.

American officials and their European counterparts have not seen any evidence of an invasion plan. Danish observers also find it unlikely that Washington would escalate the issue militarily. Instead, the current strategy appears to combine diplomatic pressure with offers of economic cooperation, development aid, and expanded presence on the island.

Interestingly, this renewed American interest follows ongoing discussions about how allies of Donald Trump and key political figures have sought to strengthen U.S. influence in the Arctic, including efforts to infiltrate Greenland and weaken its traditional connection to Denmark.

Existing Agreements Shape the Relationship

The United States already operates a major air base at Pituffik in northwestern Greenland. A defense agreement dating back to 1951 allows American forces to move freely across the area as long as Denmark’s sovereignty is respected.

Under this framework, the U.S. can expand its activity without formally taking over the island. Officials in Washington reportedly see this as a practical alternative to purchasing Greenland outright. Marco Rubio and other policymakers seem to view deeper cooperation within current agreements as a safer political route compared to direct annexation.

Danish and Greenlandic Leaders Reject Sale

Recent statements from Copenhagen reaffirm that Greenland is not for sale. In response to renewed U.S. interest, Denmark and six major NATO countries signed a joint declaration asserting that Greenland’s future belongs to its people alone. The document made it clear that only Denmark and Greenland have authority to decide the island’s fate.

Danish Prime Minister Mette Frederiksen’s position has gathered broad support among European allies. The declaration’s language underscores that no external power, including the United States, can unilaterally decide Greenland’s political status.

Meanwhile, Washington and Copenhagen plan to hold a new round of meetings about Greenland’s future. These talks are expected to focus on economic cooperation, energy, and Arctic security rather than territorial acquisition.

Future Cooperation Remains Uncertain

While Donald Trump has repeatedly expressed a desire for control over Greenland, current American officials appear divided over how far to take the idea. The State Department may prefer to strengthen existing defense and trade partnerships instead of seeking outright ownership.

Because of Greenland’s strategic position in the Arctic, both superpowers see long-term value in close collaboration. The outcome of upcoming meetings between the U.S. and Denmark could determine whether this renewed American push evolves into deeper cooperation or renewed tension.

Sources and References

The Danish Dream: Trump Allies Infiltrate Greenland to Weaken Tie With Denmark
The Danish Dream: Best Immigration Lawyers in Denmark for Foreigners
DR: USA arbejder på plan, som gør det attraktivt for Grønland at blive del af USA

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Josephine Wismar Creative Writer

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