Following US military rhetoric and a joint European defense of Greenland's sovereignty, Beijing strongly condemned President Trump's assertions of needing the Arctic territory for national security, citing nonexistent Chinese naval presence, as tensions escalate over the strategic island's resources and position.
Building on recent US escalations—including spokesperson statements that military deployment remains an option—and a joint declaration from European leaders affirming 'Greenland belongs to its people,' President Trump's Sunday interview with The Atlantic has drawn sharp rebuke from China.
Trump stated he needs Greenland 'right now' for national security, claiming it is 'surrounded by Russian and Chinese ships all over the place.' Chinese foreign ministry spokesman Lin Jian condemned the remarks, urging Washington to uphold UN Charter principles and 'stop using the so-called China threat as a pretext to pursue its own interests.' Beijing warned that such rhetoric risks heightening regional tensions.
Reports confirm Trump's depiction of Chinese ships 'surrounding' Greenland is inaccurate. While China has pursued investments in Greenland's oil, minerals, and tourism, its presence is limited. Greenland's value stems from its Arctic location between Russia and North America, vast natural gas and mineral reserves, and emerging sea routes opened by melting polar ice, which could slash intercontinental travel times.
Trump's persistent claims, echoing his 2019 proposal, have alarmed allies and fueled geopolitical rivalry in the Arctic, potentially drawing China closer to Europe.
