US President Donald Trump on Friday renewed his push for American control of Greenland, stating bluntly that the United States would act “whether they like it or not,” citing national security concerns.
Speaking to reporters while hosting oil executives at the White House for discussions on investments in Venezuela, Trump said that if the US does not take action, rival powers such as Russia or China could move in.
“Because if we don’t do it, Russia or China will take over Greenland, and we’re not going to have Russia or China as a neighbor,” he said.
Trump has repeatedly expressed his desire to acquire Greenland, an autonomous territory within the Kingdom of Denmark, either through purchase or by military means. His remarks have drawn strong opposition from Greenland, Denmark, and several European allies.
Greenland’s head of representation to the United States, Jacob Isbosethsen, reiterated this position on Thursday after a closed-door meeting with members of Congress.
“Greenland is not for sale. Our Prime Minister Jens-Frederik Nielsen and our Foreign Minister Vivian Motzfeldt have made it very clear. Our country belongs to the Greenlandic people,” he told journalists.
When asked how much money might persuade Greenland to agree, Trump said he was “not talking about money yet,” adding that while he preferred an “easy” deal, the US would act “the hard way” if necessary.
Lawmakers from both major US parties have also expressed skepticism about Trump’s ambitions. Senator Roger Wicker, the top Republican on the Senate Armed Services Committee, said there was no willingness from Denmark or Greenland to negotiate any transfer of sovereignty.
Similarly, Democratic Senator Jeanne Shaheen, chair of the Senate Foreign Relations Committee, stressed that Greenland, Denmark, and the United States are long-standing allies who share common values and cooperate closely.
House Speaker Mike Johnson, a key Trump ally, dismissed suggestions that military force would be used, saying Congress was not seriously considering such an option.
However, Vice President JD Vance defended the administration’s interest in Greenland, urging European leaders to take Trump’s words seriously. He emphasized Greenland’s strategic importance, particularly for missile defense, and warned of growing interest in the region from “hostile adversaries.”
Meanwhile, US Secretary of State Marco Rubio is expected to meet next week with counterparts from Denmark and Greenland, following their request for urgent talks on the issue.
