World in 10 Is Trump building support for Greenland takeover?
Aug 28, 2025
Oliver Moody, The Times' Berlin correspondent and author of Baltic: The Future of Europe, dives into the intriguing geopolitical tensions surrounding Greenland. He discusses the U.S. accusations of covert influence operations linked to the Trump administration aimed at stoking separatist movements. Moody elaborates on the strategic importance of Greenland for military and resource interests, while also unpacking the island's quest for independence from Denmark and the local resistance to U.S. involvement.
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Alleged Covert Influence In Greenland
- Danish broadcaster DR reported Americans linked to the White House tried to mobilise a Greenland separatist campaign.
- It remains unclear whether they acted for the White House or on private initiative.
Denmark's Diplomatic Response
- Denmark summoned the Chargé d'Affaires at the US Embassy and raised the issue with US senators, signalling serious diplomatic concern.
- Danish sources said the activity diminished over summer but warned it could be a precursor to deeper involvement.
Why Greenland Matters To The US
- Greenland matters for minerals, military geography and ideological notions of US expansion.
- Trump appears driven by access to rare earths, strategic defense positioning and a historic 'manifest destiny' impulse.
