Trump's team races to come up with a Greenland takeover plan — here's what's at stake

Core Perspective - The U.S. administration is actively pursuing the acquisition of Greenland, emphasizing its strategic importance and mineral wealth, which has raised concerns among European leaders regarding U.S. territorial ambitions [2][4][18]. Group 1: U.S. Intentions and Actions - The Trump administration has expressed a strong desire to acquire Greenland, citing its mineral resources and strategic location as vital to national security [2][18]. - U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio confirmed that discussions regarding the acquisition of Greenland are ongoing, with all options, including military force, being considered [4][18]. - Previous attempts to purchase Greenland during Trump's first term were met with rejection from Denmark, indicating a complex diplomatic history [5]. Group 2: Reactions from Denmark and Greenland - Danish Prime Minister Mette Frederiksen has urged the U.S. to cease threats regarding Greenland, labeling the idea of U.S. control as a "fantasy" [3][7]. - Greenland's leadership and public opinion largely oppose U.S. control, with many Greenlanders favoring independence from Denmark [13][16]. - The Danish government, along with European leaders, has emphasized that decisions regarding Greenland should be made by its people and Denmark, reinforcing the island's status within NATO [9][10]. Group 3: European and NATO Response - European leaders have shifted their stance to defend Greenland's sovereignty, asserting that it is part of NATO and should not be subject to military action by the U.S. [9][10]. - There are calls for European lawmakers to engage in robust political statements and lobbying against any military intervention in Greenland [11]. - Analysts have raised concerns about the implications of U.S. military action against a NATO ally, warning that it could undermine long-standing security agreements [8][10]. Group 4: Strategic Considerations - The U.S. views Greenland as strategically important due to perceived threats from Russia and China in the Arctic region [18][19]. - Analysts question the necessity of U.S. control over Greenland for national security, noting existing U.S. military presence and agreements with Denmark [20].