Trump: US Troop Levels in Europe Depend on Greenland Deal
President Trump said the decision on reducing US troops in Europe hinges on reaching an agreement on Greenland, reiterating his desire for the US to take control of the Danish autonomous territory.
US President Donald Trump stated on Tuesday aboard Air Force One that he has not yet made a final decision on reducing the number of US troops in Europe, and that much depends on whether he can secure a "very good deal" on Greenland. Trump reiterated that Greenland, an autonomous territory of Denmark, should come under US control.
Shortly after arriving at the NATO summit in Ankara, Trump again expressed his desire for the US to take over Greenland. Earlier this year, he openly threatened to seize the island, causing tension within NATO and raising questions about the alliance's unity.
A senior US official indicated that Washington believes acquiring Greenland is the only way to address long-term security risks in the region. Danish Prime Minister Mette Frederiksen categorically rejected this demand.
Trump argued that Greenland is not safe from Russian and Chinese threats under Danish control, posing a risk to US security. While he later withdrew the threat of military action and abandoned tariff threats against Germany and other European nations, he has not dropped his claims on the island.
These comments have sparked concerns about NATO's cohesion and mutual trust among allies.
