Why does Trump want Greenland and what do its people think?

US President Donald Trump has made headlines with his repeated interest in acquiring Greenland, the world's largest island, which is currently governed by Denmark. In a recent address to Congress, Trump stated that he believes Greenland is destined to become a US territory and that his administration is actively working to 'get it - one way or another. ' Greenland is located in the Arctic and is home to approximately 56,000 residents, primarily indigenous Inuit people. The island is characterized by its stunning icy landscapes, with about 80% of its land covered in ice, and most of its population residing along the southwestern coast, particularly in the capital city of Nuuk. The economy of Greenland is largely dependent on fishing, and it receives significant financial support from the Danish government, which accounts for about 20% of its income. In recent years, there has been a growing interest in Greenland's natural resources, including rare earth minerals, uranium, and iron, which may become more accessible as climate change causes some of the ice to melt. Greenland has been under Danish control for nearly 300 years, and it was governed as a colony until the mid-20th century. In 1953, Greenland became part of the Kingdom of Denmark, granting its residents Danish citizenship. A referendum in 1979 allowed Greenland to gain control over most of its internal policies, while Denmark retained authority over foreign affairs and defense. The strategic importance of Greenland to the United States has been evident for decades. During World War Two, when Nazi Germany occupied Denmark, the US took control of Greenland, establishing military bases and radio stations across the territory. After the war, the US maintained a military presence in Greenland, particularly at the Pituffik Space Base, which has been crucial for US defense operations. Experts have noted that if Russia were to launch missiles towards the US, the shortest route would be over the North Pole and Greenland, making the Pituffik Space Base vital for national security. In recent years, both China and Russia have been enhancing their military capabilities in the Arctic, prompting discussions about the need for the US to strengthen its presence in the region. In January, Danish Foreign Minister Lars Lokke Rasmussen indicated that Denmark is open to discussions with the US regarding Greenland, acknowledging that Washington has 'legitimate' interests in the area. Trump has also expressed interest in the mining potential of Greenland, particularly the rare earth minerals found in the southern part of the island. During his speech to Congress, Trump emphasized that control of Greenland is essential for both national and international security. He also stated that he supports the right of the people of Greenland to determine their own future, saying, 'If you choose, we welcome you into the United States of America. ' While Trump's comments may seem unusual, the desire for US control over Greenland is not new. Over the past century, several US presidents have attempted to gain control of the island. For instance, in 1867, after purchasing Alaska from Russia, US Secretary of State William H. Seward sought to buy Greenland from Denmark but was unsuccessful. In 1946, the US offered $100 million for the territory, considering it vital for national security, but the Danish government declined the offer. Trump also attempted to buy Greenland during his first presidential term, but both Denmark and the Greenlandic government rejected the proposal, stating, 'Greenland is not for sale. ' When Trump expressed his desire to control Greenland, reactions from local leaders were mixed. Kuno Fencker, a member of the Greenlandic parliament, stated that he did not view Trump's comments as a threat. He believes that an independent Greenland could still collaborate with the US on defense matters. However, many locals voiced their opposition to Trump's ideas. Dines Mikaelsen, a tour operator from Tasiilaq, described Trump's proposal as 'a very dangerous idea,' while Aleqa Hammond, Greenland's first female prime minister, criticized Trump for treating Greenland as if it were a commodity to be purchased. She pointed out that he was not engaging directly with the people of Greenland but was negotiating with Denmark instead. Overall, the people of Greenland are passionate about their right to self-determination and do not wish to be treated as a possession of another country.