The key facts

  • On October 14, Trump announced on Truth Social his readiness to begin large-scale exploration for oil, gas, and minerals in Greenland.
  • He provided no supporting studies, participating companies, or start dates for the work; the US role remains unclear.
  • Last month, the US, Denmark, and Greenland signed a security agreement for the Arctic, including two new bases and possible deployment of the 'Golden Dome' system.

Trump's Statement on Greenland's Resources

On October 14, US President Donald Trump announced on his Truth Social page his readiness to begin large-scale exploration for oil, gas, and minerals in Greenland. According to him, the island's oil reserves, which could be developed more easily than in other regions of the world, are very large. However, he did not cite any studies supporting this claim, did not name the companies that would participate in the project, and did not specify when the exploration work would begin. US involvement in the process also remains unknown.

Security Arguments

In the same statement, Trump emphasized Greenland's importance for the security of the US and Europe. In his view, possible future air strikes on the US could pass through Greenland. The president noted the importance of the island's geographic location for detecting missiles, drones, and other threats, as well as for taking measures against them.

Context: The Arctic Agreement

Last month, the leaders of the US, Denmark, and Greenland signed an agreement aimed at strengthening security in the Arctic. The document provides for expanding the US military presence on the island, establishing two new military bases, and the possibility of deploying the 'Golden Dome' missile defense system proposed by Trump. At the same time, the agreement confirms Denmark's sovereignty and the right of Greenland's population to self-determination.