Synopsis
During a meeting with NATO Secretary General Mark Rutte, President Trump expressed his belief that the U.S. could annex Greenland, an autonomous territory of Denmark. Rutte clarified that such discussions are outside his jurisdiction. Danish Prime Minister Mette Frederiksen emphasized that Greenland's future is for its people to determine.Key Takeaways
- Trump believes in the potential annexation of Greenland.
- Rutte distanced NATO from discussions regarding Greenland.
- Trump hinted at the possibility of increased U.S. military presence in Greenland.
- Danish leaders reaffirmed self-determination for Greenland.
- The Demokraatit party advocates for independence from Denmark.
Washington, March 14 (NationPress) US President Donald Trump stated his belief that the US would successfully annex Greenland, an autonomous territory of Denmark, during a meeting with NATO Secretary General Mark Rutte in the Oval Office, according to various US news reports.
Trump conveyed his confidence in the US's potential annexation of the island, even hinting that the NATO chief could play a significant role in the process, as per reports from Xinhua news agency citing The Hill.
"I believe it will occur," Trump remarked to reporters during the Oval Office meeting, the report indicated.
Responding to Trump's comments, Rutte stated that any discussions regarding Trump's ambition to acquire Greenland lie outside his responsibilities, and he prefers not to involve NATO in such matters, the report noted.
"A boat arrived there 200 years ago or so. They claim they have rights to it," Trump mentioned, adding, "I am unsure if that is accurate. Personally, I don't think it is," as reported.
Trump highlighted that the United States already maintains a military presence in Greenland and suggested, "Perhaps you will see an increasing number of soldiers stationed there," according to the report.
Since the beginning of this year, Trump has consistently voiced his interest in acquiring Greenland, even hinting at the possible use of force.
In light of the ambiguity surrounding Trump's intentions, Danish Prime Minister Mette Frederiksen reiterated Denmark's stance earlier this month, stressing that the future of Greenland rests solely with its inhabitants.
Greenland's opposition party, Demokraatit (Democrats), won the parliamentary elections on Tuesday, as per preliminary results from the Central Election Committee. The party advocates for a gradual transition towards independence from Denmark and has condemned Trump's threats to annex Greenland.
Greenland, recognized as the world's largest island, has a population of approximately 60,000. It was a Danish colony until 1953, when it became an integral part of Denmark, granting Greenlanders Danish citizenship. In 1979, Greenland attained home rule, acquiring greater self-governance while Denmark retained authority over its foreign affairs and defense policies.
