By : Sean Markland

Recent comments by President Donald Trump about Greenland have sparked a global debate over U.S. foreign policy. After initially suggesting the United States might take control of Greenland with military force being in question, Trump has now taken back those remarks, saying he is not going to use military force to invade the island.

Greenland is a territory of Denmark, located in the North Arctic. Although it has a small population, it is very important because of its location and natural resources. The U.S. already has a military presence with air bases located there.

Bellbrook students weighed in on the issue. “Although I don’t agree with using military force for invading Greenland, the country does have vital resources,” senior Brady Read said. “If President Trump can make a deal for it, I think it could be a great purchase.” 

Trump gained international attention when he described Greenland as vital to the U.S. He argued that American control of the island would prevent rivals like China and Russia from gaining influence in the Arctic and a huge threat to the United States.

“I think Trump’s idea of taking Greenland with force is quite frightening,” an anonymous senior said. “We don’t need Greenland and creating drama and tensions with our closest allies is just unnecessary.” 

When Trump initially suggested he might use the military to get the island, it upset many U.S. allies, including NATO. 

Leaders in Denmark and Greenland quickly rejected the idea. They made it clear that while they want to be friends with the U.S., Greenland is not for sale, despite Trump’s new promise to not invade Greenland.