Summary
President Donald Trump has stated a desire for the U.S. to take complete control of Greenland, even though the U.S. already has considerable rights there under existing agreements with Denmark. This includes the right to build and operate military bases, such as the Pituffik Space Base, which currently requires runway repairs.
Key Facts
- President Trump wants the U.S. to have full control over Greenland.
- The U.S. already has rights to build and operate bases in Greenland based on a 1951 defense treaty with Denmark.
- The Pentagon plans to repair the runway at the Pituffik Space Base in Greenland, with a budget of tens of millions of dollars.
- President Trump linked his demand to control Greenland with grievances about the Nobel Peace Prize and hinted at imposing tariffs on European countries that disagree.
- European leaders are preparing for potential retaliatory actions due to Trump's tariff threats.
- The U.S. has existing agreements that allow for infrastructure development in Greenland without needing to purchase the territory.
