Washington, DC: President Donald Trump has voiced his belief that the United States will successfully annex Greenland, highlighting the potential influence of NATO Secretary General Mark Rutte in this endeavor.
During a press briefing following a meeting with Rutte at the White House on Thursday, Trump stated that Greenland is essential for "international security" and suggested that further discussions on the topic are forthcoming.
"I believe it will happen. I hadn't considered it much before, but now I'm with someone who could be very helpful. Mark, we need this for international security—not just for our own safety. We have many of our key allies operating in the area, and we must proceed with caution. We will be in touch," Trump remarked, addressing Rutte. "It's a very relevant question."
While recognizing the increasing activities of China and Russia in the Arctic, Rutte clarified that NATO should not be involved in discussions about Trump's plans for Greenland.
"As for whether Greenland should join the US, I prefer to keep that out of our discussions because I don't want to involve NATO in this matter," Rutte stated.
He continued, "Regarding the Arctic and the high north, you are absolutely correct. The Chinese are utilizing these routes, and we know the Russians are rearming. We also face a shortage of icebreakers. Therefore, it is crucial that the seven Arctic nations, excluding Russia, collaborate on this under US leadership to ensure the safety of that region, especially as conditions are changing, and we must be present."
On March 10, Trump made a statement regarding Greenland, suggesting the possibility of its incorporation into the United States. In a message posted on his social media platform, Truth Social, he affirmed that while the US respects Greenland's autonomy in shaping its future, it would also welcome the territory should it choose to join the US.
In his Truth Social post, Trump remarked, "As I emphasized during my Joint Address to Congress, the United States firmly supports the right of the people of Greenland to decide their own destiny. We will continue to ensure your safety, as we have since World War II. We are prepared to invest billions of dollars to generate new jobs and enhance your wealth. If you wish, we invite you to become part of the Greatest Nation in the World, the United States of America!"
For several months, Trump has advocated for the acquisition of Greenland. Before taking office on January 20, he did not dismiss the possibility of using military action to annex the territory.
When questioned about whether he could guarantee that the US would not resort to military or economic pressure in its efforts to gain control of Greenland and the Panama Canal, he responded, "No, I can't assure you on either of those two. But I can say this -- we need them for economic security," as reported by CBS News.
