“If we don’t secure Greenland, Russia or China might, and I’m determined to prevent that,” President Trump remarked to the press.

Trump emphasized that full U.S. ownership of Greenland—a mineral-rich island under Danish control and a NATO ally—was essential. He stated, “I believe owning it fulfills a psychological need for success.”

He explained, “Ownership provides benefits you can’t achieve through leasing or treaties.”

“Owning something offers advantages and elements that mere agreements can’t, such as establishing a base,” he added.

During the interview, he stressed that this was “psychologically important” for him personally, more so than for the country.

“Another president might have a different perspective, but I’ve been right so far,” he concluded.

The incendiary nature of the president’s messaging has set off fresh alarm bells in Europe about the future of NATO.

In an official statement, Greenland’s government vowed to “increase its efforts to ensure that the defence of Greenland takes place under the auspices of NATO”.

”All NATO member states, including the United States, have a common interest in the defence of Greenland, and the government coalition in Greenland will therefore work with Denmark to ensure that the dialogue on and development of the defence in Greenland takes place within the framework of NATO co-operation,” the statement said.