President Donald Trump has refused to rule out using military force to take control of Greenland.
In an interview on NBC's Meet the Press, the US President said he "doesn't rule out" using force to annex the Arctic island.
The comments have sparked diplomatic tensions, coming amid his repeated expressions of interest in US expansion into Greenland since returning to office.
Trump's threats stand in stark contrast to his approach towards Canada, which he has also suggested should become part of the United States.
In an interview on NBC's Meet the Press, the US President said he 'doesn't rule out' using force to annex the Arctic island
NBC
"I don't rule it out," Trump told NBC's Kristen Welker. "I don't say I'm going to do it, but I don't rule out anything."
The President emphasised America's desire for the territory, stating: "We need Greenland very badly.
"Greenland is a very small amount of people, which we'll take care of, and we'll cherish them, and all of that. But we need that for international security."
Trump has repeatedly expressed interest in acquiring the resource-rich island, which he insists is vital for US national security interests.
When asked about using similar tactics against Canada, which Trump has suggested could become America's 51st state, the president struck a different tone.
LATEST DEVELOPMENTS:
- JD Vance to visit Greenland in just DAYS as White House leaves Denmark seething after latest intervention
- 'It's a provocation!' Greenland fumes as Usha Vance leads landmark US trip to Danish territory amid Trump's 'annexation' threats
- 'We picked up the tab!' JD Vance takes huge swipe at Denmark as Trump's push for Greenland met by protests
Vice President JD Vance visited a US Space Force base in Greenland in March, but received a frosty reception from locals
REUTERS
"It's highly unlikely. I don't see it with Canada. I just don't see it, I have to be honest with you," Trump said in the same NBC interview.
Trump confirmed he had spoken with Canada's new Prime Minister Mark Carney, describing him as "a very nice man".
Despite ruling out military action, the Potus maintained he would "always talk about" the possibility of annexing Canada during Carney's upcoming visit to Washington.
Greenland's Prime Minister Jens-Frederik Nielsen has firmly rejected Trump's overtures, stating: "President Trump says that the United States 'will get Greenland.'
"Let me be clear: The United States will not get it. We do not belong to anyone else. We decide our own future."
King Frederik X of Denmark visited Greenland last week
REUTERS
Nielsen has described US remarks about his country as disrespectful, emphasising that Greenland "will never, ever be a piece of property that can be bought by just anyone".
Danish Prime Minister Mette Frederiksen has also reaffirmed Denmark's commitment to Greenland during an official visit in April.
Trump's interest in Greenland stems from its strategic geopolitical position between the US and Europe, which experts say could help repel potential Russian attacks.
The island also lies along a key shipping lane and contains valuable natural resources, including oil, gas and rare earth metals needed for electric cars and military equipment.
Vice President JD Vance visited a US Space Force base in Greenland in March, but received a frosty reception from locals.
