Trump Zeros In On Country As New State

President Trump on Tuesday renewed his call for the United States to take control of Greenland, arguing that the strategically important Arctic territory should not remain under Danish control.

Speaking to reporters in Ankara, Turkey, Trump said Greenland is critical to U.S. national security because of increased activity by Chinese and Russian ships in the region. He also suggested the issue has strained his relationship with NATO, arguing that Denmark does not invest enough in Greenland despite benefiting from its status within the alliance.

Trump also raised the possibility of reducing the U.S. military presence in Europe, saying American troops stationed there represent a costly commitment that has not been matched by European allies. The United States has maintained forces across Europe since NATO was established in 1949 to deter foreign threats and support collective defense.

Denmark, like other NATO members, benefits from the alliance’s mutual defense commitments. Trump has long argued that many European nations rely too heavily on U.S. military spending and have failed to contribute what he considers their fair share to the alliance.