A U.S. Senate delegation is in Greenland Monday seeking to mend relations strained by former President Donald Trump’s expressed interest in purchasing the island.
The visit comes as a direct response to concerns raised after Trump publicly floated the idea of the United States acquiring Greenland in January, a proposal that sparked outrage and prompted fears about the island’s sovereignty. The move highlighted the strategic importance of Greenland, particularly for its geographical location in the North Atlantic.
“In a few sentences and a few words, the trust that was established since World War II has eroded and collapsed, and we must work to rebuild it,” Senator Lisa Murkowski, a Republican, told reporters during a press conference. “We are here, members of Congress, to remind you that our president can make some statements, but we too have a role to play as members of Congress.”
The delegation includes Senator Lisa Murkowski, Independent Senator Angus King, and Democrats Gary Peters and Maggie Hassan. They have already visited the U.S. Military base at Pituffik and met with Greenland’s Prime Minister Jens Frederik Nielsen, with plans to also meet with Foreign Minister Vivian Motzfeldt.
Trump initially suggested the possibility of a purchase, even hinting at using force, but later walked back the threat, stating he had reached a “framework” for negotiation with NATO Secretary General Mark Rutte to potentially expand U.S. Influence on the island. Following Trump’s overtures, a working group comprised of representatives from Greenland, Denmark, and the United States was formed to discuss the matter.
Senator Gary Peters, speaking Monday, emphasized the need to restore confidence. “We have a president who has broken this trust, broken it in a massive way, and now we need to rebuild it,” he said. He added, “We consider you friends… we want you to consider us friends as well.”
Both Denmark and Greenland acknowledge shared security concerns with the United States, but have firmly stated that sovereignty and territorial integrity are “red lines” in the ongoing trilateral discussions. The development underscores the delicate balance between strategic alliances and respecting national sovereignty in the region.
