Greenland has made it clear that it does not want to be taken over by the United States. However, it comes as a major surprise that the island is now turning its attention toward China instead.
The Geopolitical Game for Greenland Heats Up
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The U.S., under President Donald Trump, has shown strong interest in Greenland, which is an autonomous territory within the Kingdom of Denmark.
Trump Warns: Greenland Threatened by China and Russia
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“There are ships sailing near Greenland from Russia, from China, and many other places,” Trump told NBC News. “We will not allow anything to happen that harms the world or the United States.”
Trump: “The U.S. Must Take Full Control of Greenland”
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In the same interview, Trump declared that America needs full control over Greenland—stating, “There’s a good chance to do this without military force. But I rule nothing out.”
Major Setback: Greenland Reaches Out to China
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Greenland’s new foreign policy leader, Vivian Motzfeldt, signals a major pivot—openly inviting stronger cooperation with China.
“We Shouldn’t Look West”
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In an interview with Danish newspaper Berlingske, Motzfeldt said Greenland should not “look west” but instead strengthen ties with China: “China is very important to us.”
Danish Media: “Astonishing Statement”
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Danish broadcaster TV2 called the move “astonishing,” especially considering the intense interest from the U.S. and Donald Trump in recent years.
Motzfeldt Already Visited China in 2023
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Motzfeldt met with China’s deputy trade and foreign ministers last year. The meetings were hailed as a success, focusing on fisheries and tourism cooperation.
Why China Is Interested in Greenland
Jens-Frederik Nielsen
Arctic regions, including Greenland, are rich in untapped resources like oil, gas, and minerals—and melting ice is opening up strategic new shipping routes.
U.S. Military Sees China as a Threat in the Arctic
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As China increases its Arctic engagement, the U.S. military has warned it could threaten regional stability and global security.
Greenland’s Strategic Shift Raises Global Stakes
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With Greenland turning east, global power dynamics in the Arctic could be shifting—leaving the U.S. to rethink its strategy in the far north.
