Trump Amplifies Controversial Push for Greenland, Panama Canal, and Canadian Annexation
U.S. President-elect Donald Trump has intensified threats to seize control of Greenland and the Panama Canal, labeling both as critical to national security.
During a wide-ranging press conference at his Mar-a-Lago estate in Florida, Trump was asked on Tuesday whether he would rule out using military or economic measures to take over Greenland, an autonomous Danish territory, or the Panama Canal. His response: “No, I can’t assure you on either of those two. But I can say this: we need them for economic security.”
Denmark and Panama have both categorically rejected any suggestion of relinquishing control. Trump also suggested annexing Canada, calling the U.S.-Canada border an “artificially drawn line” and vowing to use “economic force” to protect U.S. interests.
Greenland and Denmark’s Response
Greenland, which sits strategically on the shortest route between North America and Europe, holds vast deposits of rare earth minerals essential for high-tech manufacturing. Trump has previously expressed interest in acquiring the territory, which also hosts a large U.S. space facility.
Danish Prime Minister Mette Frederiksen reiterated that “Greenland belongs to the Greenlanders” and reaffirmed that the territory is not for sale. Frederiksen stressed the importance of close cooperation with the U.S. as a NATO ally while rejecting any notion of ceding sovereignty.
Trump Jr.’s recent visit to Greenland, described as a “personal day trip,” further fueled speculation. The Danish Prime Minister noted there were no scheduled meetings with officials, emphasizing Greenland’s autonomy.
Panama Canal Controversy
Trump also renewed his focus on the Panama Canal, a vital link between the Atlantic and Pacific Oceans. He claimed the canal was “being operated by China” and criticized Panama for allegedly overcharging U.S. ships.
Panamanian President José Raúl Mulino dismissed Trump’s claims, stating, “There is absolutely no Chinese interference in the canal.” The canal is managed by a Hong Kong-based company, CK Hutchison Holdings, which oversees two ports at its entrances.
“Giving the Panama Canal to Panama was a very big mistake,” Trump remarked, referencing treaties signed under President Jimmy Carter that gradually returned control of the canal zone to Panama.
Canada in Trump’s Crosshairs
Trump also floated the idea of annexing Canada, a move he justified by criticizing U.S. spending on border protection and trade disputes involving Canadian cars, lumber, and dairy products. “They should be a state,” Trump told reporters.
Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau dismissed the suggestion, stating there was “not a snowball’s chance in hell” Canada would join the U.S.
A Press Conference Turned Free-for-All
Initially billed as an economic development announcement highlighting a $20 billion investment from Dubai’s Damac Properties, the event quickly turned into a sprawling commentary on Trump’s views. Among other remarks, he proposed renaming the Gulf of Mexico as the “Gulf of America” and claimed wind turbines were “driving whales crazy.”
Trump also repeated several unfounded conspiracy theories, including claims that the FBI and Hezbollah were involved in the Capitol riot on January 6, 2021.
Looking Ahead
While Trump’s comments have sparked outrage and ridicule internationally, it remains unclear how seriously his administration will pursue these territorial ambitions. His remarks, however, underscore his unconventional approach to foreign policy and his willingness to upend traditional geopolitical norms.
