After Venezuela, Greenland has emerged as the next flashpoint involving US President Donald Trump. On Wednesday, US Secretary of State Marco Rubio announced that he would hold talks with the Danish government on Greenland next week. The announcement came days after Trump spoke about bringing Greenland under US control and said that the 'American military is always an option.' His remarks triggered fresh questions over whether the US could take action in Greenland similar to what happened in Venezuela.
Europe raises alarm over Trump's remarks
Danish Foreign Minister Lars Løkke Rasmussen had earlier written to Rubio, seeking discussions on the issue. Greenland's foreign minister also confirmed on social media that talks would be held over Trump's comments. Several European leaders have expressed concern, saying Trump must respect the sovereignty of Greenland and Denmark. Countries including France, Germany, Italy, Poland, Spain, and the UK issued a joint statement. Danish Prime Minister Mette Frederiksen warned that any US attack on Greenland could lead to the collapse of NATO. Despite the tension, Denmark and Greenland have said they prefer dialogue and want to resolve the issue peacefully.
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Why Greenland matters to the US
Greenland is a strategically important island in the Arctic and is rich in mineral resources. The US argues that Russia and China are expanding their influence in the region, posing a security threat. Greenland is an autonomous territory under Denmark, with its own parliament, but Denmark controls its foreign policy and defence. Denmark is also a NATO member and a long-time US ally, with American military bases already on Danish soil.
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However, Danish officials have warned that existing defence agreements could be reconsidered if the US tries to take Greenland by force. While reports suggest the US may even consider buying Greenland, Denmark has repeatedly said that the island is not for sale.
