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Washington: U.S. President Donald Trump has reiterated his call for the United States to take over Greenland, prompting strong objections from Greenland, Denmark, and the European Union. Speaking to reporters at his Mar-a-Lago resort in Florida, Trump said Greenland was essential for U.S. national security, dismissing claims that American interest was driven by mineral resources.
“We need Greenland for national security, not for minerals,” Trump said, a statement that contrasted with earlier remarks from his administration citing Arctic strategy and access to critical natural resources as factors behind Washington’s interest.
The comments followed Trump’s announcement of Louisiana Governor Jeff Landry as his special envoy to Greenland. Trump said Landry had volunteered to lead efforts related to Greenland, while Landry stated on social media that the role would be unpaid and focused on bringing Greenland under U.S. control.
Trump also criticized Denmark’s role, claiming it had invested little in Greenland’s defense. Greenland, a former Danish colony, gained home rule in 1979, with expanded self-governance granted in 2009. However, Denmark continues to oversee foreign policy, defense, and security matters.
The appointment and remarks triggered swift diplomatic backlash. Danish Foreign Minister Lars Lokke Rasmussen said he would summon the U.S. ambassador, calling the envoy’s appointment and statements unacceptable. Danish Prime Minister Mette Frederiksen and Greenlandic Prime Minister Jens-Frederik Nielsen issued a joint statement reaffirming that Greenland belongs to its people and rejecting any notion of annexation.
The European Union also voiced concern, stressing that respect for Denmark’s sovereignty and territorial integrity is fundamental to international law and EU principles.
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