Donald Trumpwho is scheduled to take oath as the US President on January 20, has once again created a geopolitical stir across the world. His old plan to buy Greenland has worried Denmark. Trump has not only talked about occupying Greenland, but has also made controversial statements on issues like the Panama Canal and Canada. This development has become the center of discussion in international politics.
Desire for American occupation of Greenland: Denmark’s big step
Greenland, the world’s largest island, is an autonomous region of Denmark. Denmark has given priority to the security of Greenland after Trump’s recent statements. Denmark has announced new plans to massively increase security in the region. Danish Defense Minister Troels Lund Poulsen has announced a package of $1.5 billion (about 12-15 billion krone) for the security of Greenland. This includes two new inspection ships, long-range drones, and additional dog sled teams.
Denmark plans to increase the number of Arctic Command personnel in Greenland’s capital Nuuk and adapt the air base there for F-35 supersonic fighter planes. This decision was taken after Trump’s statement in which he described Greenland as an “absolute necessity” strategically for America.
Denmark’s response: ‘Greenland is not for sale’
Danish Prime Minister Mute Borup Egede rejected Trump’s demand, saying, “Greenland is ours, and it will not be sold at any price. We must not let our fight for freedom weaken.” Even during Trump’s first term, he had described such demands as “meaningless”.
Geopolitical significance of Trump’s Greenland plan
Greenland is of strategic importance to the US due to its vast natural resources and geostrategic location. It is located between the Atlantic and Arctic oceans and is home to important US military bases such as Thule Air Base. The island has mineral deposits and renewable energy resources, which make it very attractive in Trump’s eyes.
Trump eyes Panama Canal: controversies and concerns
Trump has recently talked about regaining American control over the Panama Canal. He said that if rising shipping costs are not controlled, America may have to withdraw it. This statement may increase tension between Panama and America.
Joke on Canada or serious intention?
Trump jokingly talked about making Canada the 51st state of America. He even suggested that Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau be made the governor of the “Great State of Canada”. However, concern has increased in Canada and the international community regarding this statement.
Sled dog deployed for security of Greenland
Denmark has deployed sled dog teams to protect Greenland. These teams are extremely important for patrolling in the harsh climate of the Arctic region. The Danish military has activated additional resources to increase surveillance in Greenland’s coastal areas.
International reaction and criticism
These statements of Trump have worried not only Denmark but the entire Europe and the international community. The European Union has expressed solidarity with Denmark and said that Trump’s policy regarding Greenland is aggressive.
Trump’s controversial foreign policy
This is not the first time that Trump’s foreign policy has created controversy. During his tenure, his aggressive strategy on issues like North Korea, China, and Iran has already come under question. Now the issues of Greenland, Panama Canal and Canada have made his critics more vocal.
Not a conclusion, but a new beginning
This new plan of Donald Trump is being considered more aggressive in contrast to his first term. His desire to occupy Greenland and his statements regarding the Panama Canal and Canada have created a stir in international politics. Now it has to be seen in which direction his policies go after January 20 and what impact it will have on the world.