Rubio says Trump wants to buy Greenland from Denmark

(MENAFN) U.S. officials have indicated that President Donald Trump is aiming to purchase Greenland from Denmark rather than attempt to seize the Arctic island by force. According to briefings to lawmakers, Secretary of State Marco Rubio clarified the plan following questions from senators about whether military action could be involved in Greenland or other regions.

Trump has previously framed ownership of Greenland as critical for national security, citing the island’s strategic position and the need to counter Russian and Chinese naval presence. White House press secretary Karoline Leavitt emphasized that “President Trump has made it well known that acquiring Greenland is a national security priority of the United States, and it’s vital to deter our adversaries in the Arctic region,” while noting that military action remains “always an option at the commander-in-chief’s disposal.”

European NATO members have voiced their support for Denmark’s sovereignty over Greenland. Leaders stressed that no member of the alliance “should attack or threaten” another, warning that an armed confrontation between the U.S. and Denmark would undermine NATO entirely. Danish Prime Minister Mette Frederiksen stated, “If the United States attacks another NATO country, everything stops.”

The debate over Greenland’s status has long been linked to local autonomy movements. Political parties on the island have consistently advocated for either independence or expanded self-rule. Public figures have also expressed support for the cause, with Icelandic singer Bjork sharing on social media her hope that Greenland could achieve independence, following the example of Iceland’s separation from Danish rule in 1944.

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