Trump weighs military options to acquire Greenland

President Donald Trump is exploring ways for the United States to take control of Greenland, with the White House saying on Tuesday that the use of the US military remains “an option,” further escalating tensions with NATO ally Denmark.

The statement came despite calls from both Greenland and Denmark for an urgent meeting with Washington to resolve what they described as “misunderstandings.”

Trump’s renewed interest in the self-governing Arctic territory follows recent US military action in Venezuela and highlights Greenland’s strategic value, including its untapped rare-earth resources and growing importance as melting polar ice opens new shipping routes.

White House Press Secretary Karoline Leavitt said acquiring Greenland is a “national security priority” for the United States, citing concerns over Russia and China. She said the president and his advisers are considering multiple approaches to achieve the goal, adding that military force remains within the commander-in-chief’s authority.

Trump’s remarks have alarmed European leaders and raised concerns about strains within the transatlantic alliance. Greenland and Denmark said they have repeatedly sought a meeting with US Secretary of State Marco Rubio, though no meeting has yet taken place.

Greenland Prime Minister Jens-Frederik Nielsen reiterated that the island is not for sale and that only Greenlanders have the right to determine its future. Several European countries, including Britain, France, Germany, Italy, Poland and Spain, issued a joint statement backing Denmark and reaffirming principles of sovereignty and territorial integrity.

The United States already operates a military base in Greenland, which has a population of about 57,000.

Trump has floated the idea of annexing Greenland since his first term and suggested on Sunday that a decision could come within two months, once the situation in Venezuela stabilizes.