In August 2019, former President Donald Trump publicly expressed interest in the United States purchasing Greenland, an autonomous territory within the Kingdom of Denmark, sparking international discussion and debate. His statement, resurfaced recently, highlighted a desire for “Complete and Total Control” of the island, citing benefits to NATO and global security. This proposal followed past instances of other nations exploring potential acquisition or control of greenland.
Donald Trump and the Proposed Greenland Purchase
Donald Trump,while President,proposed the United States purchase Greenland from Denmark,a suggestion that was firmly rejected by the Danish Prime Minister Mette frederiksen. Trump argued that Greenland was strategically important and that the U.S. should have control over it. He made this proposal publicly via a tweet on August 19, 2019, and discussed it during a state visit to Denmark which was later cancelled.
According to a statement released by the White House, Trump believed acquiring Greenland would benefit the United States strategically and economically. White House Statement, August 19, 2019
Frederiksen publicly dismissed the idea as “absurd” and stated that Greenland was not for sale. Reuters Report, August 15, 2019
Historical Interest in Greenland
Throughout history, various nations have shown interest in Greenland due to its strategic location and potential resources. early exploration and settlement attempts predate Trump’s proposal by centuries.
the first documented European contact with greenland was by Erik the Red in 985 AD, who established Norse settlements on the island. History.com: Viking Exploration These settlements were eventually abandoned in the 15th century,but the island remained a point of interest for European powers.
In the 17th and 18th centuries, Denmark-Norway asserted control over Greenland, establishing colonies and trade routes. Later, during World War II, the United States strategically utilized Greenland, establishing military bases there to protect supply lines to Europe.U.S. Department of Defense: Greenland a Strategic Ally During WWII
The original text references other nations landing boats in Greenland,which is historically accurate. Various explorers and whaling ships from countries like England, the Netherlands, and france visited Greenland’s coasts for centuries. Though, these landings did not equate to attempts at sustained control or purchase like the U.S. proposal in 2019.
Greenland’s Current Status and NATO
Greenland is currently an autonomous territory within the Kingdom of Denmark, meaning it has self-government in most areas, but Denmark retains control over foreign affairs and defense. Greenland is not a member of NATO.
The U.S. maintains a meaningful military presence in Greenland through Thule Air Base, a key component of the Ballistic Missile Early Warning System. U.S. Air Force: Thule air Base Fact Sheet This base is crucial for detecting potential missile launches and plays a vital role in North American defense.
While Greenland is not a NATO member, its strategic location makes it important to the alliance. Trump’s statement that “NATO should do somthing for the United States” regarding Greenland reflects a desire to leverage the alliance for U.S.interests in the region.
