Former President Donald Trump has recently reiterated claims regarding Greenland, advocating for U.S. control over the territory. Trump described the acquisition of Greenland as “a core national security interest of the United States,” asserting that it is essential for protecting Americans. This position has been met with strong opposition from both Greenland officials and NATO allies.
During the World Economic Forum in Davos on January 19, 2024, Trump expressed his interest in acquiring the self-governing territory from Denmark. After a meeting with NATO Secretary-General Mark Rutte, Trump suggested they had established “the framework of a future deal” regarding Greenland, although he did not provide specific details about this purported agreement.
In his conversations with world leaders, Trump has made several claims that have raised eyebrows. He alleged that Denmark has no legal claim to Greenland and exaggerated threats from both Russia and China. Furthermore, he asserted that Denmark’s defense capabilities in Greenland are minimal.
Legal Claims and Sovereignty Issues
Trump’s assertion that Denmark lacks legal rights over Greenland came to light during a text exchange with Norwegian Prime Minister Jonas Gahr Støre. He questioned Denmark’s sovereignty, stating, “There are no written documents” establishing ownership. This claim is inaccurate. Numerous written agreements and international court rulings affirm Denmark’s sovereignty over Greenland. Notably, a declaration by the U.S. Secretary of State in 1916 recognized Danish control, while a 1933 ruling by an international court confirmed Denmark’s sovereignty over the island.
Marc Jacobsen, a professor at the Royal Danish Defence College, emphasized that Denmark’s sovereignty has been internationally recognized, including by the United States. He remarked that Danish explorers and settlers began colonizing Greenland in the early 1700s, long before the establishment of the United States.
Claims of Naval Threats
Trump has also claimed that Greenland is surrounded by numerous Russian and Chinese ships. In a press conference on January 4, 2024, he stated, “Right now, Greenland is covered with Russian and Chinese ships all over the place.” These assertions have not been substantiated.
Greenland’s Minister of Business, Naaja Nathanielsen, stated she was “not aware” of any such naval presence. Public ship-tracking data indicates that most vessels near Greenland are fishing boats, not military ships. Experts, including Romain Chuffart of The Arctic Institute, have noted that while Russian naval activity is concentrated near Norway, China’s involvement in the Arctic is primarily trade-focused.
Defense Capabilities Misrepresented
In a separate statement, Trump remarked on Denmark’s military presence in Greenland, joking that it consists of “two dog sleds.” This characterization is misleading. While the Sirius Dog Sled Patrol does operate in the region, it represents only a fraction of Denmark’s military capabilities.
The Danish military maintains a presence that includes Arctic patrol vessels, surveillance aircraft, and a military base in Nuuk with approximately 150 personnel. Furthermore, Denmark has committed around $6.5 billion to modernize its military capabilities in Greenland over the next decade.
The U.S. also has an air base in Greenland and has the option to expand its military presence under a longstanding agreement with Denmark. Danish officials have expressed willingness to cooperate with the U.S. on security matters but have firmly stated that Greenland is not for sale.
Joanne Stocker contributed to this report.
