Trump reiterates possible use of military force to annex Greenland, refers to Canada as potential "51st state"
In a new interview, president Donald Trump did not rule out taking Greenland by force and once again hinted at the annexation of Canada, escalating diplomatic tensions with both countries.
Donald Trump has reignited controversy by stating in an NBC News interview that he does not rule out using military force to annex Greenland, an autonomous territory of Denmark. The former president justified the idea as a matter of national and international security, saying, “The U.S. urgently needs Greenland.”
This statement adds to a series of remarks Trump has made since returning to the political spotlight in December, expressing his desire to acquire or control Greenland—despite firm opposition from both Denmark and Greenlandic authorities. Trump also revisited the idea of turning Canada into the "51st state" of the United States.
Greenland at the center of geopolitical tensions
Trump emphasized Greenland’s strategic value, located between North America and Europe in the Greenland-Iceland-UK gap, which plays a key role in Arctic control and defense against potential Russian threats. He also pointed to the island’s vast natural resources—including oil, gas, and rare earth minerals—becoming more accessible due to climate change-induced ice melt.
Greenland has responded firmly to Trump’s repeated assertions. In March, Greenland’s Prime Minister Jens-Frederik Nielsen declared, “The United States will not get Greenland,” emphasizing the island's right to self-determination. Denmark has also reaffirmed its sovereignty and condemned any suggestion of annexation.
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Canada and a renewed threat that fuels tensions
Trump also mentioned Canada as a potential target for annexation, though in a more tempered tone. He stated it was “very unlikely” he would use military force to incorporate Canada into the United States, but reiterated that making it the “51st state” would be “fantastic.”
Canada’s newly re-elected Prime Minister, Mark Carney, pushed back strongly against Trump’s rhetoric during his campaign, declaring that Canada would “never” yield to U.S. pressure. Although Trump said he congratulated Carney during a post-election phone call, he confirmed the annexation issue was not discussed—but hinted it could be brought up during an upcoming visit to Washington.
