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Trump says 'massive' oil, gas and mineral exploration to begin in Greenland
Trump said experts see vast accessible oil and gas reserves, while the new security pact expands U.S. military access on the island.
On Wednesday, President Donald Trump announced that major oil, gas, and mineral exploration is set to begin in Greenland, writing on Truth Social that the region is "our new and beautiful Greenland."
This announcement follows a September agreement between the United States, Denmark, and Greenland that expands the American military presence while reaffirming Danish sovereignty over the territory.
Washington plans to establish two additional military sites at Narsarsuaq and Mestersvig to support Trump's proposed "Golden Dome" missile defense system, which he claims will intercept future threats.
While Greenland holds significant rare earth elements and potential oil reserves, experts note that severe Arctic conditions and high extraction costs complicate commercial viability, with no established production on the island.
As diesel averaged $6.2787 a gallon on Wednesday, critics urge the administration to reverse recent deals involving Russia to supply fuel markets, complicating the energy-focused strategy.
Greenland, which is on the shortest missile route between Russia and the United States, represents a highly strategic location for the defensive "Golden Dome" shield Trump wants. In addition, it has unexploited rare earth deposits and could play a key role as polar thaw opens up new sea routes.
Donald Trump claims that drilling for oil, gas and minerals will soon begin in “our new and beautiful Greenland.” According to US expert Jan Hallenberg, one detail violates the spirit of the agreement that was signed less than a month ago. “That is the foundation of the agreement from the Danish and Greenlandic sides,” he says.