U.S. President Donald Trump has stated that the United States will not use military force to take control of Greenland, the semi-autonomous territory of Denmark, during a speech on Wednesday at the World Economic Forum in Davos, Switzerland.
Addressing world leaders, Trump said that while some observers had expected a forceful approach, he does not intend to employ military action to secure Greenland. “I don’t have to use force. I don’t want to use force. I won’t use force,” he told the audience.
Trump has repeatedly argued that Greenland’s strategic location makes it vital for U.S. national security and global defence, though Greenland is internationally recognised as part of the Kingdom of Denmark and is not for sale.
Instead of force, Trump said he wants to open negotiations with Danish authorities and NATO allies for a peaceful agreement on the future of the island, which he described as crucial for protecting against geopolitical threats.
The U.S. push to gain influence over Greenland has sparked concern among European leaders and has added to broader tensions between the United States and its traditional allies.