Trump's Team Scrambles to Plan Greenland Acquisition—What's at Stake?

• Trump claims Greenland is 'strategically' necessary due to Russian and Chinese presence, though analysts question why full control is needed given the existing U.S. military base at Pituffik and defense agreement with Denmark
• Most Greenlanders (57,000 residents) oppose U.S. control but support independence from Denmark, with a potential referendum creating uncertainty over the island's future status
• European leaders issued a joint letter affirming that 'Greenland belongs to its people' and only Denmark and Greenland can decide their affairs, while Denmark's PM warned military action would collapse NATO security guarantees

Summary

Key Developments:

U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio will meet Danish officials next week to discuss potential acquisition of Greenland, following President Trump's renewed push to make the world's largest island part of the United States. The White House confirmed the administration is "actively" discussing a purchase offer, with all options—including military force—remaining on the table. Trump previously attempted to buy Greenland in 2019 but was rebuffed.

Stakeholders and Responses:

• Denmark's PM Mette Frederiksen warned that military action against a NATO country would end post-WWII security arrangements
• Multiple European leaders issued a joint statement affirming Greenland belongs to its people and only Denmark and Greenland can decide its future
• Greenland (population ~57,000) is a self-governing Danish territory with authority over a potential independence referendum
• Opinion polls show Greenlanders oppose U.S. control but strongly favor independence from Denmark

Strategic Rationale:

Trump cited national security concerns, claiming Greenland is "covered with Russian and Chinese ships" and describing the territory as "strategic." However, analysts question this justification, noting the U.S. already operates Pituffik Space Base and has a defense agreement with Denmark allowing continued presence.

Economic Implications:

Critical Metals CEO Tony Sage, developing rare earth assets in southern Greenland, emphasized local support for independence over U.S. acquisition, suggesting any resolution must consider who becomes the "biggest benefactor" of independence.

Market Impact:

The situation raises concerns about NATO stability, transatlantic relations, and access to Arctic rare earth resources critical for technology and defense industries.