President Donald Trump pushed for “immediate negotiations” to acquire Greenland during a speech at the World Economic Forum in Davos, Switzerland, on Wednesday, though he assured world leaders he would not use military force to obtain the Arctic territory.
The renewed push for Greenland underscores Trump’s focus on securing strategic resources and territory he views as critical to American interests, setting up a potential diplomatic clash with Denmark, a NATO ally that controls the semi-autonomous island.
“I’m seeking immediate negotiations to once again discuss the acquisition of Greenland by the United States,” Trump said during his Davos address, Fox 4 KDFW reported. “This enormous unsecured island is actually part of North America. That’s our territory.”
Despite his territorial claim, Trump emphasized that he would pursue diplomatic channels rather than resort to force.
“We need it for strategic national security and international security,” Trump explained Wednesday.
Greenland’s appeal extends beyond its strategic Arctic location. The island contains valuable rare-earth minerals, including uranium, and vast natural gas reserves, as well as billions of barrels of untapped oil.
Climate change has intensified global interest in the territory. Experts predict Greenland’s melting ice sheets will increasingly affect global sea levels throughout the 21st century.
The island hosts approximately 56,000 residents, mostly Inuit, and is home to a major U.S. military installation. Denmark has controlled Greenland since the 18th century, granting it semi-autonomous status in 1979.
Trump’s broader Davos message emphasized American economic dominance. “When America booms the whole world booms,” Trump declared. “You all follow us down, and you follow us up.”
