Donald Trump Claims U.S. Will Control Greenland by 2029

Donald Trump asserted in a series of interviews and public statements that the United States will gain operational control of Greenland by the end of his presidency in January 2029. He argued that the territory is essential for strategic defense and the protection of the Western hemisphere, claiming that if the U.S. does not acquire it, Russia or China will. Trump suggested that Greenland could potentially become a 51st state and maintained that the region should be controlled by the U.S. rather than Denmark.

These ambitions have triggered significant international tension and a military build-up. Denmark responded by deploying 200 additional troops under Operation Arctic Endurance, while French President Emmanuel Macron announced further military deployments and the opening of a new consulate in Nuuk. To pressure allies, the Trump administration previously imposed a 10 percent tariff on goods from several European nations, including Denmark. Although a meeting with NATO Secretary General Mark Rutte briefly established a framework for a potential deal, Trump's recent comments have renewed friction.

In Greenland, the push for acquisition has sparked mass protests in Nuuk and created instability for migrant communities, leading some Filipinos and Thais to leave the island. While some local business owners hope for a tourism boost, leaders in Greenland and the Greenland Business Association have expressed strong opposition, emphasizing the right to sovereignty and warning that political flux is deterring investment.