US President Donald Trump said in a speech at the World Economic Forum in Davos that he is seeking to acquire Greenland through immediate negotiations, emphasizing that the United States would not use force.
Trump stated that the initiative is driven solely by national security considerations and dismissed rare earth minerals as a motivating factor.
Trump Frames Greenland As Security Imperative
In a closely watched appearance, Trump delivered a familiar address to attendees at the World Economic Forum. Speaking without notes and largely unscripted, he adhered to his characteristic speaking style.
About twenty minutes into the speech, Trump addressed one of the forum’s most anticipated topics: Greenland.
After expressing respect for Greenland and Denmark, Trump stated that the United States was the only NATO ally capable of ensuring Greenland’s security.
“It’s the United States alone that can protect this giant piece of ice,” he said.
He then called for immediate negotiations to acquire the territory, reiterating that the United States would not use force, a statement that contrasted with earlier comments suggesting force had not been ruled out.
“We want a piece of ice for world protection. You can say yes, we will be very appreciative. You can say no, and we will remember,” he added.
Trump also dismissed any interest in rare earth minerals. Instead, he stated that the motivation behind the move was exclusively “strategic national and international security.”
He went on to discuss nuclear warfare and missile capabilities, pointing to rising global geopolitical tensions and describing them as unprecedented, while alluding to perceived threats from Russia and China.
Trump also reiterated his critical view of NATO. The US president argued that had he been president in 2022, he would have prevented Russia’s invasion of Ukraine. He reiterated his previous remarks that the 2020 elections, in which he lost, were rigged.
He also addressed several other prominent issues.
Greenland Dispute Expands To Broader Critique
On Tuesday, Canadian Prime Minister Mark Carney delivered a pointed speech criticizing Trump’s handling of the Greenland issue.
Trump responded to those remarks during his own speech on Wednesday, addressing Carney directly.
“Canada lives because of the US, Remember that Mark, the next time you make your statements,” Trump said.
Trump also took the opportunity to highlight what he described as the performance of the United States under his administration.
He opened the speech by emphasizing the strength of the US economy during his tenure. He also drew a contrast with the Biden administration.
Trump then turned to criticism of Europe’s political leadership, describing it as a “failed model.” Among his points, Trump cited large-scale migration, budget and trade deficits, and inflation.
Trump also referenced Venezuela, claiming the United States had assisted the country after capturing strongman Nicolás Maduro and securing oil agreements with the government. He additionally praised the current leadership of Delcy Rodríguez for its cooperation.
“Venezuela is going to make more money in the next six months than they made in the last 20 years,” he said.
Trump later shifted his focus to the energy sector and oil consumption, criticizing European governments for prioritizing environmental sustainability and labeling the movement the “green new scam.”
