U.S. President Donald Trump again pressed his case for American control of Greenland on Wednesday, arguing that the Arctic territory is important to the United States and needed “for the protection of the world.” He made the remarks while appearing with NATO Secretary General Mark Rutte.
Trump said Greenland should be under U.S. control rather than Denmark’s, adding that Washington should not have given it back in the past. He also suggested that continued resistance from Europe could affect U.S. support for NATO and even lead to the withdrawal of American troops from Europe.
Denmark’s Prime Minister Mette Frederiksen responded by saying Greenland is not for sale and that allies should respect both the island’s right to self-determination and Denmark’s sovereignty. She said Denmark was prepared to defend “every inch” of NATO, including its own territory, and noted that the alliance was built on the principle of mutual defense.
The dispute has emerged as a broader trans-Atlantic issue this year. Greenlandic lawmakers have said the island is not for sale, and a working group involving the United States, Denmark and Greenland has been meeting to discuss next steps. Rutte said the alliance must prevent China and Russia from gaining access to the Arctic and said there should be a proper process involving Denmark and Greenland.
Source: cnbc.com
