There’s a lot of rumors circulating about what Trump will do.
President-elect Donald Trump has made it clear that he will not shy away from bold moves to secure strategic assets for the United States, including the acquisition of Greenland and the Panama Canal Zone. In a recent statement, Trump hinted at using “military force” if necessary to bring these crucial territories under U.S. control, emphasizing the need to protect national and economic security.
During a news conference at his Mar-a-Lago resort in South Florida, Trump explained that Greenland—currently under Danish control—has long been of strategic importance to the U.S. due to its position in the Arctic. He argued that the island’s location is vital as global powers, particularly Russia and China, increase their presence in the region. “We need Greenland for national security,” Trump stated. “People have been talking about it for a long time, long before I even ran. We can’t let foreign adversaries get too close to our shores.”
The former president’s comments on Greenland are not new. Trump had previously expressed his interest in acquiring the island, citing its potential for military and economic leverage. His focus on Greenland aligns with his broader foreign policy agenda of strengthening U.S. influence in key strategic regions around the globe.
Trump also turned his attention to the Panama Canal Zone, calling out the 1977 deal negotiated by President Jimmy Carter that handed control of the canal to Panama. Trump criticized this move, arguing that the canal, an essential waterway for global trade, is now effectively under Chinese influence. He noted, “The Panama Canal is vital to our country. It’s being operated by China, and Panama has abused the gift we gave them by handing it over.”
The Panama Canal generates billions of dollars in tolls annually, but Trump expressed concerns about China’s growing role in its operation. “Panama wants $3 billion to fix the canal, but why not ask China, which is at both ends of it?” he quipped, stressing that the U.S. must safeguard its interests in the region.
While the governments of Denmark and Panama have firmly rejected any talk of relinquishing control of Greenland or the Panama Canal, Trump’s stance is a reminder that his administration will not hesitate to assert American influence, particularly in strategic areas that have long-term implications for U.S. security and prosperity.
Trump’s willingness to discuss using military or economic power to reclaim these territories underscores his commitment to putting American interests first—an approach that resonates with conservative values of national sovereignty, strength, and security.