Trump Pushes for Control Over Greenland Military Base, Greenland Opposes

On January 25, 2025, U.S. President Donald Trump announced plans to increase U.S. control over strategic military facilities in Greenland. According to Trump’s statement, negotiations are ongoing with very positive results, and his expectation is that America will succeed in achieving this goal in the near future. This plan is not about complete territorial conquest but focuses on taking control of U.S. military bases, especially Thule Air Base, under full U.S. sovereignty.

Negotiations over Military Base Sovereignty in Greenland

Trump’s strategy reflects broader geopolitical interests in the Arctic and the importance of Arctic bases for U.S. national security. Thule Air Base itself is a strategic facility with significant value for American defense and intelligence. By taking control of this base, the U.S. aims to strengthen its position in a region increasingly contested by various global powers. The negotiation process is reported to be proceeding smoothly, although no specific details about mechanisms or implementation timelines have been disclosed.

Greenland Reaffirms Sovereignty as a Non-Negotiable Red Line

The Greenland government’s response has been very firm and non-negotiable. Greenland explicitly states that territorial sovereignty issues are “a red line that cannot be negotiated” and strongly rejects any efforts to change the status of the region or its military facilities. This stance is supported by Greenland’s commitment to its autonomy and national identity, which have been built over many years.

Strategic Implications and International Perspectives

Trump’s ambitions regarding military bases in Greenland reflect a shift in geopolitical paradigms in the modern era, particularly in the competition with China and Russia in the Arctic region. However, this plan faces significant challenges not only from Greenland but also from Denmark as the sovereign country responsible for Greenland. Trans-Atlantic partnerships and diplomatic relations with NATO allies are also important considerations in this negotiation dynamic. The future of U.S. bases in the Arctic region will be a focus of international attention in the coming period.