WASHINGTON — The potential acquisition of Greenland by the United States has sparked debate in Washington, with Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent defending the move as critical for global stability. Speaking on NBC’s “Meet the Press” on Sunday, Bessent said US control of Greenland is essential in the geopolitical contest with Russia and China.
Bessent argued that Europe projects weakness while the US demonstrates strength. He suggested that acquiring Greenland would benefit the United States, Europe, and Greenland itself. His remarks came a day after President Donald Trump threatened tariffs on European Union countries opposing the move, including Denmark, which currently governs the Arctic territory.
However, some lawmakers expressed skepticism and concern. Senator Rand Paul of Kentucky called Bessent’s reasoning “ridiculous,” saying there is no emergency that justifies using force to acquire Greenland. Paul has long opposed aggressive US intervention abroad and questioned whether declaring emergencies to prevent emergencies makes sense.
Bipartisan opposition also emerged in Congress. Senator Tim Kaine, a Virginia Democrat, suggested the Senate could push a war powers resolution to limit Trump’s authority or challenge his use of tariffs. Republican Representative Mike Turner warned that threats of tariffs could damage relationships with NATO allies.
Other lawmakers highlighted Greenland’s strategic and economic value. Texas Republican Senator Ted Cruz pointed to the territory’s minerals and location as strong reasons for US acquisition. Meanwhile, Maryland Democrat Senator Chris Van Hollen accused Trump of exaggerating the national security rationale and focusing primarily on Greenland’s natural resources.
Texas Republican Senator John Cornyn, however, described Trump’s tariff threat as a negotiation tactic, saying the president often uses bold statements to draw attention while seeking deals.
As discussions continue, Greenland remains at the center of a complex debate about US foreign policy, alliances, and Arctic strategy. Lawmakers and officials are divided over whether the acquisition is justified, with economic, strategic, and diplomatic considerations all in play.
In other news read more about Thousands Protest in Denmark Against Trump’s ‘Hands Off Greenland’ Remarks
The conversation underscores Greenland’s growing importance in global geopolitics and highlights the tensions between European allies and the US over Arctic influence.
