U.S. President Donald Trump conveyed a bold message to Norway's Prime Minister, Jonas Gahr Støre, indicating a shift in his international priorities. Trump stated he no longer feels compelled to focus solely on peace as he advocated for U.S. control over Greenland, a self-governing territory of Denmark.
The statement, verified by two European officials and reported by the Associated Press (AP), emerged amid escalating tensions between Washington and several European allies. The friction is fueled by the potential imposition of a 10% tariff by the U.S. on imports from eight nations that have publicly supported Greenland's sovereignty.
In the message to Støre, Trump remarked: "Since your country chose not to award me the Nobel Peace Prize for halting eight wars, I no longer feel bound to think exclusively about peace. While peace remains a priority, I can now consider what is beneficial and right for the United States."
Trump further asserted, "The world won't be safe unless we have complete control over Greenland," a statement that has raised concerns and highlighted Washington's strategic ambitions in the Arctic region.
According to the AP, Norway's Prime Minister Støre confirmed receipt of Trump's message from Oslo but refrained from disclosing its details. He reminded that the Nobel Peace Prize "is awarded by an independent committee, not the Norwegian government," and reaffirmed support for Denmark, stating that "Greenland is part of the Kingdom of Denmark, and Norway fully supports this position."
Trump justified his stance by emphasizing that Greenland is a "vital strategic asset" for U.S. security in countering Russian and Chinese influence in the Arctic. His Treasury Secretary, Scott Bessent, backed the president's approach, asserting that "the United States will not outsource its hemispheric security to anyone else."
Meanwhile, thousands of Greenlanders protested over the weekend against any U.S. attempts at control, declaring that "the island will not be coerced."
In response to the tariff threat, European Union leaders have called for an emergency summit to assess their strategy and warned that "Europe is prepared to defend itself against any form of coercion."
British Prime Minister Keir Starmer urged restraint, emphasizing that "a trade war is in no one's interest" and that disputes should be settled through diplomatic channels.
Understanding U.S. and Greenland Relations
Why does the U.S. consider Greenland a strategic asset?
Greenland is viewed as a strategic asset due to its location in the Arctic, which is significant for U.S. security interests, particularly in countering Russian and Chinese influence in the region.
What are the potential consequences of a U.S. tariff on European imports?
A U.S. tariff on European imports could lead to increased tensions and possibly a trade war, affecting economic relations and potentially prompting retaliatory measures from the European Union.
How have Greenlanders reacted to U.S. intentions?
Many Greenlanders have protested against U.S. intentions to control the island, asserting their resolve not to be coerced and emphasizing their desire to maintain sovereignty.