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Taking aim at European security efforts, Vice-President JD Vance labeled Greenland an essential shield against Chinese and Russian missile capabilities. Vance told Fox News that Denmark and the broader European community have neglected the area’s defenses through a lack of investment. He also expressed frustration over their refusal to engage with President Trump’s previous arguments regarding Greenland, a stance he suggests has left a vital defensive corridor vulnerable.
US officials are "actively" discussing a potential offer to buy Greenland - a semi-autonomous Danish territory - the White House said on Wednesday, a day after suggesting military action to annex it to the US was also an option.
Denmark, a fellow Nato member, has warned this would spell the end of the alliance. Both Greenland and Denmark have repeatedly stressed the island is not for sale.
Despite being the most sparsely populated territory, Greenland's location between North America and the Arctic makes it well placed for early warning systems in the event of missile attacks, and for monitoring vessels in the region. The US already has more than 100 military personnel permanently stationed at its Pituffik base in Greenland's north-western tip - a facility that has been operated by the US since World War Two.
Under existing agreements with Denmark, the US has the power to bring as many troops as it wants to Greenland.
In recent years, there has also been increased interest in Greenland's natural resources - including rare earth minerals, uranium and iron - which are becoming easier to access as its ice melts due to climate change. Scientists think it could also have significant oil and gas reserves.
Trump previously made an offer to buy the island in 2019, during his first presidential term, only to be told it was not for sale.
US Secretary of State Marco Rubio said on Wednesday that he would hold talks with Denmark next week.
A day earlier, European leaders issued a joint statement rallying behind Denmark.
