Trump Renews Greenland Purchase Plan in 2024

Latest

Greenland is often associated with ice and snow, but it is also a region rich in resources and holds great strategic value. Greenland is the world’s largest island and an autonomous territory of the Kingdom of Denmark, and it is no stranger to being at the center of geopolitical interest. Now, former US President Donald Trump is renewing his plan to purchase the territory, calling it “an absolute necessity.” for the United States. This could potentially redefine the balance of power in the Arctic and strengthen the US’s power and influence on a global scale. 

The United States’ interest in Greenland dates back to the mid-20th century. After the union between Denmark and Norway ended in 1814, Denmark resumed full sovereignty over Greenland. At the start of World War II, Denmark lost its link to Greenland after the occupational forces of Nazi Germany took charge of the Danish territory in 1940. As a result, The United States occupied Greenland in 1941 to prevent a possible invasion by Germany. The US occupation of Greenland ended in 1945 as the war ended. After the Civil War, President Andrew Johnson bought Alaska; he also considered purchasing Greenland. The Truman administration eventually offered Denmark 100 million for the island and they declined it. However, that was not the end of the United States’ persistent efforts to acquire the territory. 

2b1260c0 cdc9 11ef 94cb 5f844ceb9e30.jpg

Featured image courtesy of BBC 

Why is Greenland so popular? Greenland is located between the Arctic and North Atlantic oceans and next to both North America and Europe. Greenland is geographically incredibly valuable and well-placed. It offers the shortest route from North America to Europe. Furthermore, as climate change melts the sea ice, it opens up new shipping routes through the Arctic that can be beneficial for economic and defense purposes. American control over Greenland would position the country to enhance influence over Arctic affairs and control the new shipping routes that melting ice has made accessible. Additionally, after World War II it is the location of the northernmost U.S. military base. For example, the Thule Air Base is a critical US military base for missile defense and early warning systems. It is crucial in monitoring and defending Arctic activities by nations like Russia or China. If Trump gains territory, it could strengthen US military capabilities in the region and enhance national security for Americans.  In addition, Greenland has several of untouched natural resources including oil, gas, fishing, and rare earth minerals used in the manufacture of batteries and high-tech industry.  According to Sky News, “Many of the same minerals are currently mostly supplied by China, so other countries such as the US are interested in tapping into available resources closer to home.” This could potentially reduce travel times between continents and create a gateway for controlling these routes yet again strengthening the US’s global trade. 

Picture 1

Featured image courtesy of The Times 

As restated, US policymakers have always been persistent in obtaining Greenland. Trump first indicated his interest in Greenland back in 2019 and in recent weeks has shown renewed interest in taking control of Greenland in his upcoming presidency in 2025. If Trump were to acquire Greenland, it would offer significant strategic, economic, and geopolitical advantages. Ultimately, boosting the US’s position as a global superpower with direct influence over Arctic affairs. 

However, most Danish and European officials have responded negatively to Trump’s proposal as they believe Greenland’s territorial integrity must be preserved. The current Danish Prime Minister Mette Frederiksen responded to Trump’s proposal by stating firmly, “Greenland is not for sale.”  Aaja Chemnitz, a Greenlandic member of the Danish parliament, added: “Most people don’t want it.” Nonetheless, some speculate that Trump’s move is just to pressure Denmark to increase Greenland’s security because of the potential threat of both Russia and China seeking influence in the region. As a result, Denmark has faced calls to enhance its Arctic strategy. However, the notion of selling Greenland remains unfeasible and unpopular among its 56,000 residents who value their autonomy and cultural heritage. Although the US would benefit from purchasing Greenland, doing so runs the danger of alienating allies and jeopardizing regional security. Trump’s plans for Greenland are yet unknown as he returns to the White House in 2025. His plan to buy Greenland is undoubtedly something to watch in the upcoming months and years, regardless of how quickly it moves forward or remains the same. 

Featured image courtesy of National Geographic Kids 

Nicolle Pechman
Nicolle Pechman
Hi! I’m Nicolle, a second-year Communication & Digital Media student from Rio de Janeiro, Brazil. I’m trilingual and deeply passionate about storytelling through journalism. Whether I’m expressing my emotions on paper or creating short stories, I love connecting with my audience through narratives that resonate. Writing allows me to share my experiences and explore diverse perspectives, which I find truly invaluable.

More from Author

Related

LEAVE A REPLY

Please enter your comment!
Please enter your name here