Greenland is one of the main Arctic shipping routes connecting North America with Europe and is vital for US security|Jensbn|CC BY-SA 3.0
Diplomatic tensions have increased between the US and Denmark as President Donald Trump had a “horrendous” phone call with Danish Prime Minister Mette Frederiksen, according to European officials cited by the Financial Times.
During the 45-minute phone call, Trump reportedly insisted on his seriousness about acquiring Greenland, the autonomous Danish territory north of Canada, despite Frederiksen’s firm assertion that the region is not for sale.
The President wants Greenland due to its strategic position in the world. It is one of the main Arctic shipping routes connecting North America with Europe and is vital for US security.
Trump allegedly threatened tariffs against Denmark.
Trump first floated the idea of purchasing Greenland in 2019 and has renewed his interest. It mirrors his broader territorial goals, including a desire to reclaim the Panama Canal, citing concerns over China’s influence in the region.
However, Panamanian President Jose Raul Mulino rejected the idea, asserting that Panama’s sovereignty is “not negotiable”.