U.S. President Donald Trump reportedly engaged in a tense and aggressive phone call with Danish Prime Minister Mette Frederiksen on January 15, five days before taking office, over his renewed push to bring Greenland under U.S. control.
Described by senior officials as “explosive,” the 45-minute call centered on Trump’s insistence that Greenland is critical to American national security, prompting threats of tariffs on Denmark, a NATO ally, as leverage to secure the island.
Greenland, an autonomous territory of Denmark, holds immense strategic and economic value for the U.S. due to its location at the shortest oceanic crossroads between North America and Europe, its role in Arctic trade routes, and its reserves of rare earth minerals, including uranium. The U.S. already operates a military base in Greenland.
Despite its geographical ties to North America, Greenland has been politically linked to Europe since the 9th century, colonized by Denmark in 1721, and governed as an autonomous Danish territory since 1979.
Frederiksen, unyielding in her position, cited Greenland’s Parliament, which unequivocally declared the island “not for sale.”
She also emphasized Denmark’s commitment to Arctic security and proposed enhancing trade ties with the U.S., but Trump dismissed these overtures, insisting on his territorial ambitions.
“She doesn’t seem like the type that would give any ground,” a U.S. foreign policy expert told The Hill. “Not that she’s unreasonable, but she’s not the kind that would take any s***.”
The call left European officials alarmed. One source described Trump’s tone as “horrendous,” while others expressed concerns about the possibility of military action.
Trump’s fixation on Greenland reflects his broader vision of American expansionism. During his inauguration speech, he described the U.S. as a “growing nation” with ambitions to expand its territory, likening Greenland to the 1867 purchase of Alaska. He valued Greenland at approximately $230.25 million based on historical metrics, though such valuation would likely differ today.
His vision extends beyond Greenland, with previous musings about annexing Canada and retaking the Panama Canal. However, Greenland remains a focal point due to its Arctic significance and potential economic opportunities.
Frederiksen’s refusal to entertain Trump’s demands has heightened tensions. Known for her no-nonsense approach, she has been described as “the John Bolton of Europe.” Her firm stance reportedly left Trump fuming, escalating the diplomatic rift.
Hours after being sworn into office, Trump reaffirmed his determination to acquire Greenland, dismissing Denmark’s objections with characteristic bravado. “I’m sure that Denmark will come along,” he said from the Oval Office.
The confrontation underscores the growing competition in the Arctic as global powers, including China and Russia, vie for influence.
