Trump continues making rapacious overtures to Denmark about taking over Greenland (and its potentially enormous mineral and oil reserves). Thug-like behaviour with your allies is never a good idea.
Source: Financial Times
Donald Trump insisted he was serious in his determination to take over Greenland in a fiery telephone call with Denmark’s prime minister, according to senior European officials.
The US president spoke to Mette Frederiksen, the Danish premier, for 45 minutes last week. The White House has not commented on the call but Frederiksen said she had emphasised that the vast Arctic island — an autonomous part of the kingdom of Denmark — was not for sale, while noting America’s “big interest” in it.
Five current and former senior European officials briefed on the call said the conversation had gone very badly.They added that Trump had been aggressive and confrontational following the Danish prime minister’s comments that the island was not for sale, despite her offer of more co-operation on military bases and mineral exploitation.
“It was horrendous,” said one of the people. Another added: “He was very firm. It was a cold shower. Before, it was hard to take it seriously. But I do think it is serious, and potentially very dangerous.”
And how bad was it? Pretty bad.
“The intent was very clear. They want it. The Danes are now in crisis mode,” said one person briefed on the call. Another said: “The Danes are utterly freaked out by this.”
A former Danish official added: “It was a very tough conversation. He threatened specific measures against Denmark such as targeted tariffs.”
NEW: Five current and former senior European officials briefed on the call said Trump’s phone conversation with Denmark’s PM Mette Frederiksen about his intent to take over Greenland had gone “very badly,” the Financial Times reports.
“It was horrendous,” said one of the people.… pic.twitter.com/9a5TtxJBTs— Republicans against Trump (@RpsAgainstTrump) January 24, 2025
Trump held a call with the prime minister of Denmark.
Denmark is now "in crisis mode" and "utterly freaked out" pic.twitter.com/2TR2bQ4owW— Populism Updates (@PopulismUpdates) January 24, 2025
Trump says he believes US will 'get Greenland' https://t.co/urv3s2p1VV
— BBC News (World) (@BBCWorld) January 26, 2025