Donald Trump escalates Greenland bid with tariff threats, raising tensions with Denmark

Speaking at a health roundtable at the White House, Trump said Greenland was critical to US national security and suggested economic pressure could be used to secure international support.

“I may put a tariff on countries if they don't go along with Greenland, because we need Greenland for national security,” he said.

Trump has revived his long-standing ambition to claim Greenland, arguing that the Arctic island is inadequately protected as Russia and China expand their presence and interest in the region’s strategic shipping routes and mineral resources.

Russia, however, dismissed the claim on Thursday, calling the perceived threat a “myth”.

The White House has not ruled out the use of military force. In a statement, it said President Trump considers acquiring Greenland a national security priority and that a range of options are under discussion.

“Utilising the US military is always an option at the Commander in Chief’s disposal,” the statement said.

A recent meeting between officials from the US, Denmark and Greenland ended without a breakthrough, though all sides agreed to continue discussions.

As Trump presses his case, French and German military personnel have increased their visibility in Greenland in a show of reassurance over the island’s security.

However, White House press secretary Karoline Leavitt said European troop movements would not influence Trump’s stance. “It does not impact his goal of the acquisition of Greenland at all,” she said.

Denmark firmly rejected the idea of any US takeover. Foreign Minister Lars Lokke Rasmussen said on Thursday that such a move would violate international law.

“This is out of the question. It’s not what we want in Denmark, nor in Greenland. It infringes on sovereignty,” he said.

Greenland’s Prime Minister Jens-Frederik Nielsen also ruled out any change in allegiance, saying the island would stand with Denmark and its Western allies.

“If we have to choose between the United States and Denmark here and now, we choose Denmark. We choose NATO. We choose the Kingdom of Denmark. We choose the EU,” he said.