Trump Team’s Warning To Europe
Interior Secretary Doug Burgum said Thursday that European leaders should be welcoming President Trump’s renewed interest in Greenland, arguing that stronger U.S. involvement would enhance security across the Arctic region and the Western alliance.
Appearing on Rob Schmitt Tonight on Newsmax, Burgum said Greenland plays a vital role in both American and European national security.
“Greenland is critical to the national security of the United States, and it’s also critical to European security,” Burgum said. “Europeans should be cheering that the U.S. wants to step up and help provide stability and protection in that region.”
U.S. Has Experience Managing Strategic Territories
Burgum emphasized that the Interior Department already oversees U.S. territories across more than 14 time zones, including Guam and the U.S. Virgin Islands, giving the federal government extensive experience managing geographically diverse regions.
“We have the ability to take on responsibility at that scale,” he said. “A stronger American role in the Arctic would benefit democratic nations around the world.”
The former North Dakota governor compared Greenland’s importance to Alaska’s strategic role near Russia, noting increased geopolitical competition in the Arctic.
“Greenland sits on the other end of that strategic bookend,” Burgum said. “This is a critical issue.”
Trump’s Negotiating Record Highlighted
Host Rob Schmitt asked whether the United States could realistically pursue an agreement involving Greenland and whether such a deal could happen in the near future.
“We’re working for the greatest dealmaker to ever be president,” Burgum responded. “With President Donald Trump, anything is possible.”
Burgum praised Trump’s broader foreign policy strategy, saying it has strengthened America’s position abroad while helping drive economic growth at home.
Historical Precedent: Alaska Purchase
Burgum also pointed to history, reminding viewers that the United States purchased Alaska for $15 million—a decision once criticized but now widely seen as a landmark strategic investment.
“Buying Greenland for $5 billion could turn out to be another smart long-term deal,” he said.
The administration’s renewed interest in Greenland comes amid heightened global focus on Arctic shipping lanes, natural resources, and national defense considerations.
White House press secretary Karoline Leavitt reiterated this week that Greenland remains a national security priority for the United States.
International Response and Domestic Debate
According to Reuters, administration officials have explored a range of diplomatic and economic approaches related to Greenland, though no final decisions have been announced.
Officials from Denmark, which governs Greenland, have stated that the territory is not for sale and emphasized Greenland’s role within NATO.
Some lawmakers in Washington have criticized the discussion. Rep. Pete Aguilar dismissed the idea outright, while Sen. Susan Collins cautioned that public speculation could strain relations with allies.
Supporters of the president, however, argue that strengthening America’s presence in the Arctic would protect U.S. interests, reinforce Western security, and demonstrate continued leadership under President Trump.
