By Isaac Rush
WASHINGTON, — President Donald Trump on Thursday threatened to use tariffs and other economic pressure to force the annexation of Greenland, reviving a controversial idea he floated during his first term and drawing swift condemnation from foreign leaders and U.S. lawmakers.
Speaking at a campaign-style event, Trump said the United States should take control of Greenland, a semi-autonomous territory of Denmark, and suggested that punitive tariffs against Denmark and its allies could be used to compel negotiations.
“We protect them. We trade with them. We can use tariffs if we have to,” Trump said. “Greenland is very important for American security, and it should be part of the United States.”
Greenland’s government rejected the comments within hours. In a statement, Greenlandic Prime Minister Mute Egede said the territory is not for sale and cannot be coerced.
“Greenland belongs to the Greenlandic people,” Egede said. “Any attempt to pressure us through economic threats is unacceptable.”
Denmark’s Foreign Ministry also condemned Trump’s remarks, calling them “inappropriate and hostile.” Danish officials emphasized that Greenland’s status is governed by international law and the right of self-determination.
Trump first raised the idea of purchasing Greenland in 2019, prompting widespread ridicule and a diplomatic spat with Denmark. At the time, Danish Prime Minister Mette Frederiksen called the proposal absurd, leading Trump to cancel a planned state visit.
Experts said Trump’s latest comments go further by explicitly tying tariffs to territorial expansion, a move they described as unprecedented in modern U.S. foreign policy.
“Using trade weapons to threaten annexation crosses a serious line,” said Rachel Thompson, a professor of international relations at Georgetown University. “It undermines the rules-based international order and would likely provoke legal challenges and retaliation.”
Greenland, the world’s largest island, holds strategic importance due to its location between North America and Europe, as well as its natural resources and growing role in Arctic security. The United States already maintains a military presence there through Thule Air Base.
In Washington, reactions were sharply divided. Several Republican allies praised Trump’s focus on national security and the Arctic, while others distanced themselves from the annexation rhetoric. Democrats accused Trump of inflaming international tensions for political gain.
“This is not how allies treat one another,” said Sen. Chris Murphy, D-Conn. “Threatening tariffs to seize territory is reckless and dangerous.”
The White House declined to comment on Trump’s remarks. As a private citizen and presidential candidate, Trump holds no authority to impose tariffs, which would require executive action or congressional approval.
Still, analysts said the comments could strain U.S. relations with Denmark and NATO partners, particularly as Arctic competition with Russia and China intensifies.
“Forced annexation, even by economic means, would be a seismic shock to global diplomacy,” Thompson said.
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