US President Donald Trump hints at a Greenland deal but keeps plans secret, as European leaders warn of NATO risks and Denmark rejects sale.
WASHINGTON: US President Donald Trump has refused to detail his plans for Greenland, only hinting that a deal could be in the works.
Trump made the remarks hours before heading to the World Economic Forum in Davos, Switzerland.
“We have a lot of meetings scheduled on Greenland, and I think things are going to work out pretty well,” he told reporters.
When asked how far he would go, Trump replied only: “You’ll find out.”
Denmark has warned that the entire NATO alliance is at risk if Trump moves forward on threats to seize the territory.
Trump dismissed suggestions he was jeopardising a recent investment deal with the European Union.
“They need that agreement very badly with us,” he said.
He expressed confidence a solution could be found that satisfies both the US and NATO.
“I think that we will work something out where NATO is going to be very happy and where we’re going to be very happy,” Trump said.
He reiterated his claim that the US needs Greenland for national and global security.
“But we need it for security purposes. We need it for national security and even world security,” Trump said.
Greenland’s leadership has repeatedly stated the vast island is not for sale.
Asked about broad opposition among Greenland’s population, Trump said, “When I speak to them, I’m sure they’ll be thrilled.”
Trump has cited a perceived threat from Russia or China seizing the island as Arctic routes open due to climate change.
Neither rival power claims Greenland, and Denmark says China has no major investments there.
