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Trump’s Greenland plan: US House Republicans seek support for bill on possible purchase

Greenland’s flag flies in Igaliku settlement, Greenland, July 5, 2024. Ritzau Scanpix/Ida Marie Odgaard via REUTERS/File Photo

Trump Allies Propose Greenland Negotiation Bill

Republican allies of President-elect Donald Trump in the U.S. House of Representatives are working to gather support for a proposed bill that would authorize the U.S. government to negotiate the purchase of Greenland. A copy of the draft legislation, titled the “Make Greenland Great Again Act,” was circulated for co-sponsors on Monday, according to statements from Representatives Andy Ogles and Diana Harshbarger, who are leading the effort. The draft bill reportedly has 10 co-sponsors as of Monday morning.


Key Provisions of the Bill

The legislation aims to authorize formal discussions between the U.S. and Denmark regarding Greenland’s acquisition by the United States.

  • Negotiation Timeline:
    The bill specifies that negotiations may begin at 12:01 p.m. EST on Jan. 20, 2025, immediately following Trump’s inauguration.
  • Congressional Oversight:
    The draft mandates that the President submit any agreement reached with Denmark to the relevant congressional committees within five calendar days, including all related materials and annexes.

Strategic Importance

President-elect Trump has previously expressed interest in making Greenland part of the United States, citing potential economic and strategic advantages. Trump has not ruled out the use of military or economic measures to persuade Denmark to agree to the purchase.


Context

Greenland, a vast Arctic territory, has been part of the Kingdom of Denmark for centuries. It operates as a semi-sovereign territory under the Danish constitution, which means any change to its status would require a constitutional amendment.

Greenland’s Prime Minister Mute Egede has been a strong advocate for Greenlandic independence and has consistently rejected the idea of selling the territory. Egede has stated that any decision on Greenland’s future rests solely with its people.

“Greenland is not for sale, and our people will decide our future,” Egede has repeatedly emphasized.


Next Steps

If passed, the bill would mark the beginning of formal discussions with Denmark. However, given Denmark’s constitutional and political stance, as well as Greenland’s push for greater autonomy, significant diplomatic challenges are anticipated. The proposal also raises questions about the U.S. strategy for expanding its Arctic presence under Trump’s incoming administration.

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