U.S. President cites national security and sets informal deadline, while Danish PM calls remarks a “threat” and a former aide’s “SOON” post sparks diplomatic friction.
In a move that has reignited diplomatic tensions, former U.S. President Donald Trump reiterated his ambition to annex Greenland, calling it a national security necessity and suggesting talks within “20 days.” The comments drew a sharp rebuke from Danish Prime Minister Mette Frederiksen, who labeled the idea “absurd” and urged an end to what she termed threatening rhetoric toward a NATO ally.
Speaking aboard his plane on Sunday, Trump emphasized Greenland’s strategic importance in the Arctic. “We need Greenland from the standpoint of national security, and Denmark is not going to be able to do it,” he told reporters, adding, “We’ll worry about Greenland in about two months… let’s talk about Greenland in 20 days.”
The statement marks a return to a controversial proposal first floated during Trump’s presidency, which at the time was swiftly rejected by Copenhagen. Prime Minister Frederiksen responded over the weekend with a firm dismissal, stating, “I have to say this very clearly to the United States — it is absolutely absurd to say that the United States should take control of Greenland.” She also underscored that both Denmark and Greenland benefit from NATO’s mutual defense pact.
Tensions were further heightened when Katie Miller, former deputy press secretary in the Trump administration and spouse of ex-adviser Stephen Miller, posted an image of Greenland shaded in the American flag with the caption “SOON” on social media. Greenland’s Prime Minister, Jens-Frederik Nielsen, condemned the post as “disrespectful,” clarifying that “our country is not for sale.” Denmark’s ambassador to the U.S., Jesper Moeller Soerensen, issued a pointed reminder of the nations’ close alliance and joint Arctic security efforts.
Trump’s renewed focus on Greenland follows recent U.S. military engagement in Venezuela, which has stirred concerns over his administration’s approach to territorial sovereignty and alliance diplomacy. When questioned about the link between Venezuela and Greenland, Trump deferred judgment but reaffirmed, “We do need Greenland, absolutely. We need it for defence.”
The episode underscores ongoing friction within the Western alliance and highlights the growing geopolitical significance of the Arctic, where melting ice is unlocking new shipping lanes and resource competition.
