Trump was never joking.
In a recent appearance on SiriusXM’s The Megyn Kelly Show, Secretary of State Marco Rubio spoke out in support of President Trump’s proposals regarding the strategic importance of Greenland and the Panama Canal, calling them crucial to U.S. national security. Rubio emphasized that the President’s focus on these areas is not a trivial matter but rather a serious consideration rooted in protecting America’s interests.
“This is not a joke,” Rubio firmly stated when discussing President Trump’s interest in Greenland. He further clarified that the President’s approach is not about acquiring land for its own sake but about safeguarding U.S. security. “This is in our national interest, and it needs to be addressed,” he explained.
The Secretary of State acknowledged Trump’s unique approach to these matters, comparing his style to that of a businessman rather than a career politician. Rubio highlighted that Trump, having come from the private sector, views international negotiations through a transactional lens, ensuring he keeps all options on the table. “He wants to buy it, he wants to pay for it,” Rubio added, dismissing any notion that the President’s position was anything less than serious.
Rubio also discussed the growing importance of the Arctic Circle, especially with the U.S. expanding its energy production. He warned that China’s growing influence in the region could pose a direct threat to American interests. “The Arctic contains some of the most valuable shipping lanes in the world,” Rubio pointed out. He also raised concerns that China might one day use its investments in Greenland, much like its activities at the Panama Canal, to secure strategic military advantages.
Regarding Panama, Rubio made it clear that the U.S. is deeply concerned about Chinese companies operating critical port facilities along the canal. He argued that China’s presence could potentially turn the Panama Canal into a weapon, giving Beijing leverage over U.S. military and shipping routes. Rubio vowed to address these concerns head-on during his upcoming visit to Panama City.
Despite Panama’s reassurances that the canal remains firmly in its control, Rubio made it clear that the U.S. is committed to ensuring its interests are protected. “It’s not in the national interest of the United States to have a canal we built and paid for used as leverage against us,” he said.
With President Trump’s tough stance and Rubio’s strong diplomatic leadership, the administration is prioritizing American security and economic dominance in some of the world’s most vital strategic locations.