Greenland has been in the media much more than normal since Donald Trump wanted the USA to acquire it from Denmark. But where is Greenland specifically? Who owns it? And why would a Donald Trump consider it?
Where is Greenland located?
Greenland, in fact, is the largest island in the world that is not considered a continent. It was found in the North Atlantic and Arctic Oceans, northeast of Canada. Geographically, Greenland is part of North America, but culturally and politically, it claims very strong ties to Europe, particularly Denmark.
The island is dotted with ice-covered landscapes, towering glaciers with a small population. Approximately 80% of Greenland is covered by ice, though its strategic position and natural resources have made it an area of interest to many nations.
Who owns Greenland?
Greenland is an autonomous territory within the Kingdom of Denmark. This means that while Greenland has its own government and handles most of its domestic affairs, Denmark oversees its foreign relations, defense, and monetary policies.
The people of Greenland, mostly Inuit, have a high degree of self-governance, and the island has been working toward increased independence from Denmark. Despite this, it remains an integral part of the Danish realm.
Why did Donald Trump want Greenland to be part of the United States?
Strategic military site
Greenland plays a significant role with respect to the country’s national security because it is located in the Arctic. It has a considerable U.S. military site—the air base at Thule, as well as, by virtue of its geographical location, acting as an outpost for identifying regional activities.
Natural Resources
- It is suggested that Greenland has reserves of the following important unknown resources:
- Gold, silver, and copper, Uranium, oil and gas reserves that may be lying untapped.
- The increasing accessibility of these resources owing to melting ice has made Greenland more attractive.
Geopolitical influence
More importantly, the Arctic becomes a scene of international contention, especially over the control of the U.S., Russia, and China. Possession of Greenland could entrench the position of the U.S. in the struggle for Arctic supremacy.
These practical aspects had really driven Trump’s argument, in his own words, it was “for purposes of national security and freedom throughout the world.” He even called it a “real estate deal.”
Is Greenland for sale?
The short answer is no. Both Denmark and Greenland have categorically rejected the idea of selling the island. Danish Prime Minister Mette Frederiksen called the suggestion “absurd,” while the government of Greenland clarified that “the island is not for sale.” Even so, Trump’s suggestion stirred discussions about the value of Greenland and increased awareness of its geopolitical significance.
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