President Trump suggests Denmark cannot defend Greenland at a White House press conference amid strategic interests.
Trump’s Comments on Greenland
On Wednesday, January 14, Donald Trump participated in a press conference at the White House, organized following a meeting involving foreign ministers of Denmark, Greenland, and the United States in Washington. When asked about next steps regarding Greenland, Trump said: “You don’t know what I’ll do. I certainly won’t rule out various options.” The U.S. president emphasized that Greenland is very important for security, including for Denmark, adding: “I can’t count on Denmark being able to defend itself.”
Security Concerns
Trump stated he has not yet received information about the meeting with representatives from the U.S., Denmark, and Greenland. He noted that the United States has “very good relations with Denmark,” but if the U.S. does not increase its presence in Greenland, China or Russia will. In his opinion, Denmark will be helpless in such a situation.
Post-Meeting Statements
Following the meeting at the White House, Danish Foreign Minister Lars Løkke Rasmussen admitted that fundamental differences remain between the U.S. and Denmark/Greenland. “But we acknowledged these differences and will continue to talk. We decided to establish a working group that will examine whether there is a common path forward,” he added. Meanwhile, Greenland’s Foreign Minister Vivian Motzfeldt stated that the White House meeting was an opportunity to remind that Denmark and Greenland are allies and friends of the U.S.