UPDATE: Trump Doubles Down on Greenland Push, Igniting International Backlash

President Trump continued to press for U.S. control of Greenland, telling reporters: “We are going to do something on Greenland whether they like it or not.”

“Because if we don’t do it, Russia or China will take over Greenland, and we’re not going to have Russia or China as a neighbor,” Trump said as he hosted oil executives at the White House to discuss investments in Venezuela.

The president has repeatedly said he wants to take over Greenland either by buying the autonomous island territory or by using military force, calling it a matter of national security despite fierce pushback from Greenland, Denmark and European allies.

Trump Doubles Down on Greenland Push, Igniting International Backlash

U.S. President **Donald Trump** on Friday reiterated his controversial push for American control of **Greenland**, telling reporters that Washington would act “whether they like it or not,” warning that **Russia or China could otherwise move in** on the strategically located Arctic island. ([NBC4 Washington][1])

Speaking from the White House during a meeting with oil executives, Trump framed the move as a matter of **national security**, stating the United States must “own” Greenland rather than rely on existing military agreements, because “you defend ownership, you don’t defend leases.” He said he preferred reaching a deal “the easy way,” but was prepared to go “the hard way” if necessary — language that raised concerns about potential force. ([Sky News][2])

Greenland, a semi‑autonomous territory of **Denmark** with a population of around 57,000, already hosts a U.S. military presence under Cold War‑era agreements. Trump’s remarks have revived a long‑standing strategic debate over Arctic influence, rare‑earth mineral resources, and great‑power competition in the region. ([Sky News][2])

**Strong Pushback from Greenland and Allies**

Political leaders in Greenland responded sharply, stating the future of the island should be decided by **Greenlanders themselves** and rejecting the idea of becoming part of the United States or Denmark. “We don’t want to be Americans, we don’t want to be Danes, we want to be Greenlanders,” party leaders said in a joint statement. ([mint][3])

European allies, including Denmark’s government, have condemned the rhetoric. Danish officials have stressed that Greenland is not for sale, and critics warn any forced takeover could undermine **NATO unity** and international law. ([The Guardian][4])

While Trump’s administration says diplomatic talks may still occur, his comments have intensified geopolitical tensions, drawing attention from capitals in Europe and beyond as the Arctic becomes an area of growing strategic importance. ([abcnews.go.com][5])