Republican allies of President-elect Donald Trump in the House of Representatives are reportedly seeking support for a bill that would authorize negotiations to purchase Greenland. The bill, titled “Make Greenland Glorious Again,” has been distributed to several lawmakers, with 10 additional supporters backing the initiative, according to Republican Representatives Andy Ogles and Diana Harshbarger.
Why It Matters
President-elect Trump has expressed interest in making Greenland part of the United States, hinting at the potential use of economic or military leverage to persuade Denmark to relinquish the territory. Following the Republican majority win in both the House and Senate in the November 5 elections, the push for this legislation reflects growing political momentum.
Key Points of the Bill
- If approved, the bill would authorize the President to initiate negotiations with Denmark starting January 20, when Trump assumes office.
- The legislation states:”Congress authorizes the President, beginning at 12:01 PM on January 20, to seek negotiations with the Kingdom of Denmark to secure the purchase of Greenland by the United States.”
- The bill further mandates that no later than five days after reaching an agreement, the President must present the finalized deal, including all relevant materials and annexes, to the appropriate Congressional committees.
Context
Denmark has governed Greenland for centuries, initially as a colony and now as a semi-sovereign territory. Greenland’s status is tied to the Danish constitution, meaning any legal changes would require constitutional amendments.
Greenland’s Prime Minister, Múte Egede, who has intensified efforts for the island’s independence, has consistently stated that Greenland is not for sale, emphasizing that its future lies in the hands of its people.
Potential Implications
This move could strain U.S.-Danish relations, given Denmark’s long-standing control over Greenland and the island’s strategic geopolitical importance. While the prospect of U.S. acquisition may spark debate, Greenland’s leadership remains firm in prioritizing the wishes of its citizens over external ambitions.
