Concerns over Arctic sovereignty resurfaced this week as former U.S. President Donald Trump renewed discussions about acquiring Greenland through military means. While the proposal was initially floated during his 2017-2021 presidency, recent remarks have drawn fresh criticism from European allies and bipartisan U.S. lawmakers.
Danish Foreign Minister Lars Løkke Rasmussen reiterated that Greenland remains "an integral part of the Kingdom of Denmark," while NATO officials expressed concerns about destabilizing the strategically vital Arctic region. The debate gains urgency following increased great power competition in northern shipping routes and mineral exploration.
Analysts note that while unilateral annexation remains unlikely under current international law, Trump's continued influence in U.S. politics keeps the controversial proposal in public discourse. The Greenland government maintains its commitment to self-determination, having rejected purchase offers as recently as 2019.
