Action for Thursday, 4/3/25
Why is President Trump so eager to gobble up Greenland?
Why does Trump want Greenland? Greenland is huge even while its population is not. The island nation is roughly as large as Alaska and Montana combined, but whose population of 56,000 is approximately the same as Carson City, Nevada. But the self-governing territory of Denmark is rapidly becoming more strategically important, especially as climate change melts the ice in the Arctic Circle.
- Greenland is rich in uranium and iron, but also in 17 rare earth minerals that are of vital use in advanced industries including smartphones, MRI machines, and weapons systems.
- As the Arctic melts, it opens a shortcut for shipping between the U.S. and Asia and between Europe and Asia that’s 40% less than use of the Panama or Suez Canals.
- Greenland became strategically important to the U.S. military during World War 2. Pituffik Space Base is the only U.S. base in Greenland and is critical for missile defense and space surveillance missions.
- China and Russia have been increasing their Arctic military presence, according to a report by the Arctic Institute last year. The study recommended that the U.S. and NATO pursue a proactive Arctic strategy.
Trump has wanted to acquire Greenland since 2019, by direct purchase, economic pressure, strategic pact or even outright annexation. His efforts have failed so far, but he refuses to give up. Greenland is a self-governing territory of Denmark, a member of NATO. Leaders of both countries have pushed back against him, saying Greenland is not for sale. A January poll of island residents showed 85% don’t want to be part of the U.S.
(Use one or more of the bullet points below to compose your message)
Senators Wyden & Merkley, Reps. Janelle Bynum, Maxine Dexter and/or Andrea Salinas Talking Points:
Hi. My name is _______ and I live in __________(include ZIP Code). I’m calling because
- America should stay in a peaceful partnership with Greenland. Our friendship can help make it harder for Russia and China to gain a strategic foothold there. Peaceful friendship is so much more powerful than flirting with possible war!
- I don’t want Trump to take Greenland.
- Greenland is a self-governing territory of Denmark, and EIGHTY-FIVE PERCENT of Greenland’s population wants it to stay that way.
- USA Today – Why Trump wants Greenland: Military security, rare minerals, trade routes, for starters
- AlJazeera.com – Trump says Greenland takeover needed for ‘world peace’
- The Arctic Institute – The Future Battlefield is Melting: An Argument for Why the U.S. Must Adopt a More Proactive Arctic Strategy
