Priyanka Tiwari
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Former U.S. President Donald Trump’s idea of buying Greenland—once dismissed as outlandish—is now receiving serious attention. The Office of Management and Budget has initiated a cost-benefit study to evaluate the feasibility of acquiring the autonomous Danish territory, according to the Washington Post.
Insiders say the administration is estimating costs related to providing public services to Greenland’s 58,000 residents, while also exploring potential revenue from mineral and energy resources. A key proposal involves offering Greenland more financial support than Denmark’s current $600 million annual subsidy.
Strategic Value: Why Greenland Matters to the U.S.
Trump and his national security team view Greenland as a key asset in achieving dominance in the Arctic region. The island’s location offers:
Access to Arctic shipping lanes
A forward base to monitor Russian and Chinese activity
Opportunities for mineral extraction
Increased U.S. influence in the geopolitical Arctic landscape
Former advisor Stephen Bannon called the plan a "brilliant naval strategy," underscoring the island’s strategic role in Trump’s global vision.
Vice President JD Vance’s Greenland Visit Highlights Escalation
In a historic visit, Vice President JD Vance and National Security Adviser Michael Waltz toured Greenland, with Vance publicly criticizing Denmark’s administration of the territory.
“You have not done a good job by the people of Greenland,” Vance stated, aligning with Trump’s stance and reinforcing American interest.
This marks the highest-level U.S. visit to Greenland, indicating the seriousness of the administration’s intent.
Greenland and Denmark Push Back
Greenland’s Prime Minister Jens-Frederik Nielsen, who campaigned against U.S. acquisition plans, responded defiantly:
“Greenland is ours,” he posted on Facebook, emphasizing local autonomy.
Danish Prime Minister Mette Frederiksen is visiting Greenland to reaffirm Denmark’s support, signaling Copenhagen’s strong resistance to any foreign takeover.
Economic Viability and Political Risks
Though Trump supporters argue Greenland’s untapped resources justify acquisition, analysts remain doubtful:
American Action Forum estimates Greenland’s mineral value at $200 billion, with strategic worth up to $3 trillion.
Critics warn of high costs and legal barriers, especially if Greenlanders oppose the plan.
Former Biden official Alex Jacquez called it "cover for Trump’s colonial fantasies," citing impractical mining logistics and strong local opposition.
Deal Mechanism and Historical Context
The White House is reportedly exploring incentive-based models to gain Greenland’s approval, potentially exceeding Denmark’s financial support. Officials emphasize that any move would require local consent, although Trump hasn’t ruled out force as a last resort.
Historically, U.S. expansion has involved both land purchases (e.g., U.S. Virgin Islands) and military action. Trump’s Greenland ambitions would follow the acquisition model—albeit with major geopolitical complications.
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