Trump Attacks NATO Over Greenland, Iran
US President Donald Trump has renewed criticism of NATO, saying Greenland should be controlled by the United States and accusing alliance members of failing to support Washington during its confrontation with Iran.
Trump Criticises NATO Over Greenland
Speaking during the NATO summit in Ankara, Trump said Greenland should be controlled by the US, not Denmark, citing national security and Arctic strategy.
He argued that Greenland is important to American defence interests because of growing Russian and Chinese activity in the Arctic. Trump also said Denmark was not doing enough for Greenland, while the US was spending heavily to protect Europe from Russia.
The remarks revived an earlier diplomatic dispute between Washington, Copenhagen and Greenland’s leadership, both of which have rejected the idea of US control over the island.
Greenland Dispute Strains NATO Ties
Greenland is a self-governing territory under the Kingdom of Denmark and holds strategic importance because of its location between North America and Europe.
Denmark and other Nordic countries have strongly defended Greenland’s right to self-determination. NATO allies have also been wary of the issue because it raises sovereignty concerns within the alliance itself.
Trump said opposition to his Greenland proposal had hurt his relationship with NATO, adding another point of tension during the summit.
Trump Blames NATO Over Iran
Trump also criticised NATO allies over the Iran conflict, saying several members did not support the US when Washington sought help during its military confrontation with Tehran.
The comments come after the US launched fresh strikes against Iran following attacks on commercial vessels near the Strait of Hormuz.
The remarks highlight continuing friction between Trump and NATO over defence spending, European security commitments, Iran policy and Arctic strategy.
