A recent report has revealed that a phone conversation between US President Donald Trump and Denmark’s Prime Minister Mette Frederiksen turned into a heated debate over Greenland. The conversation, which reportedly took place during Trump’s presidency, centered on Trump’s interest in buying Greenland, a self-governing territory under Denmark.
Trump’s interest in Greenland
In 2019, Trump publicly expressed his desire to buy Greenland, citing its strategic location and rich natural resources. The suggestion was viewed with surprise and skepticism globally, with Danish officials immediately dismissing the idea as unrealistic. Prime Minister Frederiksen called Trump’s proposal “absurd”, stressing that Greenland is not for sale.
Tense phone call
According to sources familiar with the matter, Trump again raised the topic of Greenland during a phone call with Frederiksen. What reportedly began as a diplomatic conversation turned confrontational. Trump expressed disappointment at Denmark’s refusal to accept the idea of selling Greenland. Frederiksen, on her part, reaffirmed that Greenland was not ready to negotiate.
The disagreement escalated, with the two leaders reportedly exchanging heated words. The heated debate highlighted the clear differences in their approach to the issue.
Diplomatic row
Trump’s interest in Greenland strained relations between the US and Denmark at the time. After Frederiksen initially rejected the idea, Trump canceled his planned state visit to Denmark, calling her comments “nasty” and insulting. The move was widely criticized as an overreaction that further complicated diplomatic relations.
Strategic Importance of Greenland
Greenland holds immense geopolitical importance due to its location in the Arctic, where global powers such as the US, Russia and China are vying for influence. The island’s natural resources, including rare earth minerals, make it an attractive asset. However, Greenland remains an autonomous territory of Denmark, where its people have the final say on governance and future.
