White House Keeps Options Open on Greenland Including Diplomatic Efforts

Snow-covered homes in Nuuk, Greenland, captured from the sea on March 6, 2025.

President Trump remains interested in Greenland, with the administration signaling that they are keeping all possibilities open, particularly regarding the potential acquisition of this Danish territory.

"President Trump consistently evaluates options based on U.S. interests," stated Karoline Leavitt, the White House press secretary, noting that the president favors diplomatic routes first.

Her remarks arise amid international scrutiny of the U.S.'s assertive foreign policy, notably reflected after the recent military incursion in Venezuela that detained President Nicolas Maduro.

Trump's interest in acquiring Greenland is not new, dating back to 2019. Given its strategic significance and mineral wealth, the territory is viewed as crucial for U.S. goals in the Arctic region.

Trump highlighted the urgency by stating, "Greenland is inundated with Russian and Chinese vessels, and for national security, the U.S. must take action as Denmark alone cannot manage it."

The focus on Greenland raises challenges for U.S.-Europe relations.

In response, leaders from seven European nations supported Greenland's self-governing status, emphasizing that decisions related to the territory should rest solely with Denmark and Greenland.

Concerns have grown among European leaders, including Denmark's Prime Minister Mette Frederiksen, that U.S. military moves involving Greenland could threaten the unity of NATO.

In an online post, Trump reassured NATO allies of U.S. support, stating the U.S. will stand by NATO even in the absence of reciprocal support.

Leavitt reiterated to the press that previous U.S. presidencies also considered the possibility of acquiring Greenland, but critics question why military force isn't unequivocally ruled out.

She argued that drawing global attention to a fixed foreign policy strategy risks exposing vulnerabilities irrespective of political alliances or adversities.

Further supporting these views from Capitol Hill, Secretary of State Marco Rubio indicated that Trump’s focus on Greenland hasn't wavered. Though military force isn't preferred, it remains an option.

"Every nation's leader has the choice of options," Rubio mentioned, emphasizing a global context rather than singling out Greenland.

Skepticism regarding military intervention is apparent among congressional Republicans. House Speaker Mike Johnson articulated that while Greenland is strategically significant, conflict is neither expected nor justified.

Johnson expects thoughtful deliberations, dismissing military engagement as unlikely. He clarified that such disruptive actions aren't seriously contemplated by Congress.