For the second time in his political career, President Donald Trump has set his sights on acquiring Greenland, the vast Arctic island currently under Danish control. This renewed push actually continues a long American tradition, with previous attempts dating back to 1867 when Secretary of State William H. Seward first suggested purchasing the territory.
Trump’s interest began quietly in 2017 when he discussed the idea with national security advisers. By 2019, he was floating creative proposals like trading Puerto Rico for Greenland or using federal funds designated for Puerto Rico to make the purchase. When Denmark’s Prime Minister Mette Frederiksen refused to discuss selling in August 2019, Trump cancelled his planned visit to Denmark and accused Danish officials of losing their political courage.
Trump proposed trading Puerto Rico for Greenland in 2019, then cancelled his Denmark visit after officials refused to discuss the sale.
After winning reelection, Trump escalated his efforts dramatically. In December 2024, he declared that controlling Greenland was “absolutely vital” and appointed Louisiana Governor Jeff Landry as special envoy specifically to integrate Greenland into the United States. Trump even threatened escalating tariffs on Denmark and several European nations if no deal materialized by June 2026. Central banks’ policy shifts can influence the financing environment for major geopolitical acquisitions, affecting costs and investor reactions to such moves, especially when interest rates are volatile.
The administration frames this push primarily around national security. Trump warned that Russia or China would seize control if America didn’t act first. Geographic positioning in the Arctic region gives Greenland strategic importance for defense operations and monitoring adversarial movements. The president has framed Greenland as vital to the “Golden Dome” anti-missile concept the U.S. is building.
However, economic factors also play a significant role. Australian geologist Greg Barnes met with twenty administration officials in 2019 to discuss Greenland’s rare earth minerals. These materials are essential for modern technology and military equipment. Supporters have discussed expanding American mining operations and accessing other valuable resources on the island.
Following Trump’s address at the World Economic Forum, the U.S. and NATO agreed to a framework involving mineral rights and defense operations on Greenland. Secretary of State Marco Rubio clarified that the administration intends to purchase rather than invade the territory.
The administration’s messaging has been dizzying and unclear, with conflicting signals about whether military force remains under consideration. Whether this gambit succeeds remains uncertain, but Trump’s persistence suggests Greenland will remain a priority throughout his second term. The combination of strategic positioning and valuable resources makes this Arctic island increasingly attractive to American interests.
