Trump offers Greenlanders thousands of dollars: US wants to separate the island from Denmark.

Trump offers Greenlanders thousands of dollars: US wants to separate the island from Denmark
Trump offers Greenlanders thousands of dollars: US wants to separate the island from Denmark

According to ТСН: The Trump administration is working on an unusual plan to financially support the residents of Greenland to accelerate the island's isolation from Denmark and its further annexation to the US.

According to reports, the White House is considering paying each resident of Greenland between $10,000 and $100,000. With a population of around 57,000, the total amount of these payments could reach nearly $6 billion.

New annexation strategy

This approach is seen as an attempt to overcome opposition from Copenhagen and Nuuk, which have repeatedly emphasized that 'Greenland is not for sale.' The payments are intended to shift public opinion on the island, where the idea of independence has some popularity but is restrained by the fear of losing annual subsidies from Denmark.

However, the payment tactic has already sparked outrage in the region. Greenland's Prime Minister Jens-Frederik Nielsen has strongly reacted to Washington's initiatives.

‘Enough… No more fantasies about annexation. Our fate is decided here, not in the White House.’

Geopolitical context and the 'Maduro effect'

Trump's interest in Greenland is not new, but following the successful operation by the US to oust Venezuelan leader Nicolas Maduro, discussions have become more serious. This event has given the administration confidence to implement more ambitious foreign policy initiatives.

Why the US is interested in Greenland: three reasons

  • Firstly, Greenland's resources, particularly significant reserves of rare earth metals needed for the defense industry.
  • Secondly, Arctic dominance and control over northern seas amid the activities of Russia and China.
  • Thirdly, military advantage – expanding military presence beyond Thule Air Base (Pituffik).

'Free association' model

Instead of direct state or territory status, Washington may propose Greenland a model of a Compact of Free Association (COFA). This model is successfully implemented with several Pacific island nations.

Under this scheme, Greenland would achieve formal independence but cede the US the right to ensure defense and manage foreign policy. In return, residents would receive financial support, the right to work in the US, and duty-free trade. Direct payments being discussed could turn into an 'entry bonus' for exiting the Kingdom of Denmark.

Diplomatic scandal in NATO

European allies of the US reacted with concern to news of potential payments. Leading EU countries, including France, Germany, and Italy, have already issued a joint statement supporting Denmark's territorial integrity.

US Secretary of State Marco Rubio will hold talks with Danish diplomats next week. A tense conversation is expected, as Copenhagen views Washington’s actions as undermining NATO stability and the sovereignty of the allied nation.

Thus, the issue of Greenland is becoming an important geopolitical topic that will influence relations between the US and Denmark. Copenhagen's reaction demonstrates Greenland's serious intentions to maintain its autonomy and highlights the importance of controlling the region within global politics.


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