President Trump demanded immediate negotiations for the US to acquire Greenland during his Davos speech, claiming only America can protect the territory.
Trump’s Greenland Claims at Davos
President Trump addressed Greenland during his speech at the World Economic Forum in Davos on January 21. He stated that no country or group of countries except the USA is capable of protecting Greenland, claiming the US is “a great power, greater than people are able to comprehend.” He referenced Venezuela’s situation and suggested establishing US military bases in Greenland was a favor to Denmark, while assuring he doesn’t want to use force to acquire the island.
US Demands Immediate Negotiations
Trump insisted that only the US can “defend this large piece of land, a large piece of ice” and develop it for the benefit of Europe and the United States. “I demand immediate negotiations to re-discuss the issue of the USA acquiring Greenland,” he stated. The president also noted that similar territorial acquisitions have occurred throughout history and “there is nothing wrong with it.”
NATO and the Greenland Question
According to Trump, a US takeover of Greenland “will not be a threat to NATO” and would even strengthen the alliance’s security. However, he criticized NATO for treating the US “very unfairly,” arguing that “we gave so much and received so little in return.” Trump claimed he “did more to help the Alliance than any other president” and stated, “You wouldn’t have NATO if I hadn’t gotten involved during my first term.” Regarding Greenland, Trump said NATO “has a choice” – to agree “and we will be very grateful” or disagree “and we will remember it.”