Illustrative photo: Channel 24
The United States of America is considering the possibility of acquiring Greenland, despite strong criticism of this idea from Denmark and the Greenlanders themselves. According to The Washington Post, Donald Trump’s administration is conducting an internal analysis of the costs and potential economic benefits of this decision.
Budget calculations and strategic ambitions of the United States
According to Washington Post sources, the White House Budget Office is analysing the possible costs of administering Greenland if it becomes a US territory. The potential income from the island’s natural resources is also being assessed.
Trump has repeatedly stressed that the US will “get” Greenland. In an interview with NBC News, he reiterated his determination: “100%”. At the same time, he stated that “there is a high probability” of acquiring the island peacefully, but “no option is off the table”.
Reaction of Denmark and Greenland
Copenhagen has reacted to the US idea with indignation, stressing that Greenland’s territorial integrity is not subject to revision. Danish Prime Minister Mette Frederiksen will visit the island in the coming days to emphasise Copenhagen’s support.
Meanwhile, the Prime Minister of Greenland, Jens-Fredrik Nielsen, said that “Greenland belongs to the Greenlanders”. According to an opinion poll, the vast majority of the island’s population opposes any plans to transfer the territory to the United States.
Why is Washington interested in Greenland?
Greenland is a strategically important region due to its location between the Atlantic and Arctic Oceans. In addition, the island has significant mineral resources. Senior officials in the Trump administration have stressed that Denmark is not investing enough in Greenland’s development, and the United States could be a “better partner.”
Some experts believe that these plans are part of Washington’s long-term geopolitical game. According to former Trump adviser Stephen Bannon, “control of Greenland is critical to US national security”.
How much will Greenland cost?
Analysts at the American Action Forum estimate the market value of Greenland’s resources at $200 billion, and its strategic importance at $3 trillion. Experts remind us that the United States has previously acquired territories: in 1917, Washington purchased the Virgin Islands from Denmark, and in 1867, Alaska from the Russian Empire.
So far, no official offer to buy Greenland has been made, but the White House continues to consider this possibility. However, as the reactions of Copenhagen and Nuuk show, the implementation of this idea could be extremely difficult.
