Donald Trump Jr. is set to visit Greenland shortly after his father reiterated his desire for the US to take control of the Danish territory. The one-day visit will include recording footage for a podcast, according to US media.
Trump’s Push for Greenland Control
In December, Donald Trump stated that “ownership and control of Greenland is an absolute necessity” for US national security. He had previously expressed interest in purchasing Greenland during his first term, but the island’s leaders rejected the idea. Prime Minister Mute Egede responded firmly, saying, “We are not for sale and we will not be for sale. Greenland belongs to the people of Greenland.”
Trump Confirms Son’s Visit
President-elect Trump confirmed his son’s trip on Truth Social. He shared that Trump Jr. and others would visit Greenland to explore “magnificent areas and sights.” Furthermore, Trump added, “Greenland and its people will benefit tremendously if, and when, it becomes part of our nation.”
Video Clip Sparks Interest
Additionally, the post included a video featuring an unnamed Greenlander, who wore a “Make America Great Again” hat. The man urged Trump to buy Greenland and “free it from being colonised” by Denmark.
Strategic Importance of Greenland
Greenland holds strategic significance, being located between North America and Europe. Moreover, it hosts a major US space facility. Despite his involvement in the 2024 campaign, Trump Jr. will not visit Greenland on behalf of the new US administration. In fact, the Danish Foreign Ministry stated, “As it is not an official American visit, the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Denmark has no further comment.”
Danish Response to Trump’s Remarks
In response to Trump’s comments, Denmark announced a significant increase in defense spending for Greenland. Danish Defense Minister Troels Lund Poulsen called the timing of the announcement an “irony of fate.” Furthermore, on the same day, King Frederik X changed the royal coat of arms to highlight Greenland and the Faroe Islands. Some have interpreted this as a reaction to Trump’s statements, although it could also spark controversy within Greenland’s separatist movement.
Greenland’s Push for Independence
King Frederik X used his New Year’s speech to emphasize the unity of Denmark, stating, “We belong together.” However, Greenland’s Prime Minister advocated for independence, arguing that the island must break free from “the shackles of colonialism.”
Trump’s Historical Interest in Greenland
Trump is not the first US president to consider acquiring Greenland. In fact, the idea was initially proposed by President Andrew Johnson in the 1860s. Recently, Trump has also threatened to reassert control over the Panama Canal, accusing Panama of charging excessive fees. Panama’s president responded by claiming, “every square metre” of the canal belongs to Panama.
