In a recent NBC News interview aired in full on Sunday, U.S. President Donald Trump reiterated the possibility of using military force if necessary to annex Greenland. He claimed that from a national security perspective, the U.S. has a “great need” for the Arctic island.
When asked if he would eliminate the possibility of military action, Trump replied, “I don’t rule it out. I’m not saying I will do it, but I don’t rule anything out.”
Welker: “Would you rule out military force to take Canada?”
Trump: “I think we’re not going to ever get to that point. Something could happen with Greenland, I’ll be honest.”
Welker: “You are not ruling out military force to take Greenland?”
Trump: “I don’t rule it out.” pic.twitter.com/FEmvilUnJz
— Ric₳rdo Rodrigues (@rforodrigues_14) May 4, 2025
He emphasized, “Greenland has a very small population, which we will take care of and love. But we need it for international security.”
For months, Trump has openly expressed a desire for Greenland to become a “part” of the United States, despite it being an autonomous territory of the Kingdom of Denmark. He has not dismissed the idea of military force to secure this aim.
During his first term, Trump also stirred controversy in Europe by suggesting that the U.S. could “buy” the world’s largest island.
Geographically, Greenland is part of North America and extends into the Arctic. The island is significant for global climate and military dominance in the region.
Rich in rare earth elements and hydrocarbons, Greenland is situated along increasingly vital sea routes.
Both the governments of Greenland and Denmark have firmly rejected Trump’s ambitions.
Additionally, Trump has expressed interest in making Canada the “51st state” of the U.S., even labeling former Prime Minister Justin Trudeau as a “governor.” His comments are believed to have influenced Canada’s recent election, leading to the victory of Trudeau’s successor, Mark Carney, and the Liberals, despite trailing in polls by as much as 25 percentage points earlier this year.
In the same interview with NBC News, however, Trump clarified that he is not considering military action for the annexation of Canada.
Ask me anything
Explore related questions
