The United States maintains a military presence (Thule/Pituffik Space Base) in Greenland, under agreements with Denmark, not directly with Greenland. (Image: AP)
Explainers
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News1815-01-2026, 11:24

Trump's Greenland Ambition: National Security or Imperial Overreach?

  • US President Donald Trump seeks full control of Greenland, citing national security and preventing Russian/Chinese influence in the Arctic.
  • Greenland is an autonomous territory within the Kingdom of Denmark, with its own government controlling internal affairs, while Denmark handles foreign policy and defense.
  • Greenland has the legal right to declare independence via referendum, but currently relies on Danish financial support.
  • The US maintains a military presence (Thule/Pituffik Space Base) in Greenland under agreements with Denmark, crucial for missile warning and space defense.
  • Greenland's strategic location in the Arctic, controlling the GIUK gap and shortest attack routes to the US, makes it vital for American defense.

Why It Matters: Trump's push for Greenland control stems from its critical strategic importance for US national security and Arctic dominance.

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