Trump reignites Greenland purchase controversy amid EU tensions
Donald Trump has not abandoned plans to purchase Greenland from Denmark, a goal he could not achieve during his first term. The island is crucial for Copenhagen and the European Union because of its mineral deposits, which are strategic for Europe's industry and energy transformation.
On Tuesday (January 7), during a press conference, Donald Trump asked if he could assure that he would not use force to take control of areas like Greenland. The president-elect refused to rule out such a move.
Trump questioned Denmark's claim to the island, suggesting that even if the country holds legitimate rights, it should cede control for the sake of national security. He emphasized the importance of safeguarding the free world, highlighting the visible presence of Chinese and Russian ships in the area as a pressing concern. The U.S. president-elect stated that such activity would not be tolerated.
The politician also threatened that if Denmark does not agree, it could face "very high-level tariffs."
A strategic island for the EU
The Republican's words are widely discussed. Danish Prime Minister Mette Frederiksen also responded to them in a statement for Danish TV2, emphasizing that Greenland's aspirations for independence are justified, and the island is not for sale. Frederiksen had already refused President Trump's offer to purchase the island in 2019.
Jakub Wiech, editor-in-chief of the Energetyka24.com website, highlighted the island's significance for the European Union on LinkedIn.
"Trump talking about the U.S. taking over Greenland is Trump trying to snatch from the European Union the mineral deposits crucial for the energy transformation," he wrote.
Among the 34 raw materials identified by the European Commission as strategically important for Europe's industry and green transformation, 25 can be extracted in satisfactory quantities in Greenland," he added.
"He will sell them back to us, for sure, but let us remember that the EU has been working intensively to acquire them for two years. An agreement on this matter was signed at the end of 2023," Jakub Wiech reminded.