In a firm dismissal of a controversial proposal from President-elect Donald Trump, US Secretary of State Antony Blinken stated on Wednesday in Paris that a US takeover of Greenland is neither realistic nor feasible. Speaking to reporters, Blinken directly criticised the idea, which Trump has floated previously and resurfaced during a freewheeling press conference in Florida on Tuesday.
“The idea expressed about Greenland is obviously not a good one, but maybe more important: it’s obviously one that’s not going to happen, so we probably shouldn’t waste a lot of time talking about it,” Blinken said. This rare direct rebuke comes as Trump prepares to reclaim the presidency with his characteristic “America First” rhetoric.
Trump’s controversial proposals
During his Florida appearance, Trump suggested that the United States should absorb Canada and refused to rule out the use of military force to seize both the Panama Canal and Greenland. He justified these proposals by citing economic security concerns, stating, “We need them for economic security.”
These remarks have drawn widespread criticism both domestically and internationally. Critics argue that such rhetoric risks alienating key allies and destabilising established geopolitical relationships.
Blinken’s response and the Biden administration’s approach
In contrast to Trump’s combative stance, Blinken emphasised the importance of alliances and diplomacy. He reiterated that the Biden administration has operated on the principle that “we’re stronger, we’re more effective, we get better results when we’re working closely with our allies — not saying or doing things that may alienate them.”
Blinken also highlighted the outgoing administration’s efforts to strengthen global partnerships and leave a solid foundation for the incoming Trump government. “There are so many things happening in real time that I want to make sure the administration that’s coming in is fully prepared to engage from day one,” he said.
He cited successes such as negotiating a ceasefire and hostage deal in Gaza and enhancing the US’s position in potential Ukraine negotiations as examples of the Biden administration’s achievements. “We’re handing over a lot of positive opportunities, initiatives, and work, and if the next administration chooses to carry it forward, I think that will be clearly in the interests of the United States,” Blinken added.
Middle east and Ukraine challenges
Blinken also underscored the Biden administration’s investments in Middle East diplomacy, particularly the normalisation of relations between Saudi Arabia and Israel. He described these efforts as “ready to go” if the situation in Gaza stabilises and pathways for Palestinian progress emerge.
On Ukraine, Blinken acknowledged Trump’s pledge to end the war rapidly but cautioned against hasty agreements. “The best possible deal has to be one that builds into it real deterrence against Russia repeating its aggression — six months, a year, two years, you name it,” he said.
A farewell tour amid challenges
Blinken’s remarks came during a farewell tour designed to reinforce US alliances and highlight the Biden administration’s diplomatic achievements. However, his visit has been shadowed by significant international challenges, including a democratic crisis in Seoul, Tokyo’s discontent over Biden’s blocking of Nippon Steel Corp.’s bid to acquire US Steel, and the rise of right-wing parties across Europe.
Speaking in fluent French at times, a skill he acquired during his youth in Paris, Blinken reflected on the importance of fostering relationships with allies. “The work, the investment we’ve made in transformative arrangements for the Middle East and other regions underscores the need for stability and collaboration,” he said.
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International and domestic reactions
Trump’s latest comments have sparked a mixed response internationally. Greenland, an autonomous territory of Denmark, has repeatedly rejected the notion of a US takeover, labelling it absurd and disrespectful. Danish officials have also expressed their dismay, with one former foreign minister calling the idea “ludicrous.”
Domestically, Trump’s remarks have reignited debates about his foreign policy approach. While some of his supporters view his bold rhetoric as a necessary push for American dominance, critics warn that such ideas undermine US credibility on the global stage.
Looking ahead
As Trump prepares to assume the presidency again, the contrasting approaches of his and Biden’s administrations highlight stark differences in diplomatic priorities and strategies. Whether Trump’s controversial proposals gain traction or face resistance from allies and within his administration remains to be seen.
For now, Blinken’s emphatic rejection of a Greenland grab underscores the challenges ahead for US foreign policy as it navigates an increasingly complex global landscape.
