President-elect Donald Trump has left open the possibility of using military force to take control of Greenland and the Panama Canal, citing U.S. national security interests.

"I’m not ruling it out—America might need to do something," Trump said during a January 7 press conference at Mar-a-Lago, Florida, when asked about the potential use of force in these regions.

He described the Panama Canal as "vital to U.S. interests" and said Greenland was essential for "national security." His remarks mark the first time in decades that a U.S. president-elect has openly suggested the potential use of military force for territorial expansion, deviating from long-standing U.S. policy of respecting self-determination.

The statement follows a visit by Donald Trump Jr. to Greenland, where he claimed the island's residents "love America and Trump."

Greenland in Focus

Trump has repeatedly expressed interest in acquiring Greenland, the world’s largest island, since his first term. Last month, he declared that the U.S. needs to own Greenland for "national security and global peace." The island’s leader, Mute Egede, responded that Greenland "is not for sale."

Greenland, home to 57,000 people, spans over 2.16 million square kilometers, making it larger than Mexico and three times the size of Texas. Though it operates as a self-governing territory, Greenland remains under Denmark's control in foreign affairs. The U.S. maintains a significant military presence there through Thule Air Base.

Denmark’s Prime Minister Mette Frederiksen called the U.S. a "close and essential ally" but dismissed the notion that Washington would resort to military or economic pressure to seize the island.

"Denmark welcomes U.S. engagement in the Arctic, but such actions must respect Greenland’s residents and uphold cooperative U.S.-Danish ties," Frederiksen stated.

Greenland’s strategic location and abundant natural resources—including oil, rare earth minerals, and uranium—make it highly desirable. Analysts also highlight its importance for shipping routes and military positioning in the Arctic.

During his first term, Trump floated the idea of buying Greenland, which Denmark firmly rejected. Egede recently reiterated Greenland’s aspirations for independence from Denmark, calling it the island’s "path to freedom from colonial chains."

Panama Canal Controversy

Trump’s comments on the Panama Canal have also drawn sharp reactions. Panama’s Foreign Minister Javier Martinez-Acha reaffirmed the canal’s sovereignty, stressing that it "belongs to Panama and is not subject to any external control."

"The sovereignty of the Panama Canal is non-negotiable. It represents an irreversible chapter in Panama’s struggle for independence," Martinez-Acha said.

The canal, completed by the U.S. in 1914, was jointly managed until 1999, when full control was handed to Panama. Stretching 82 kilometers, the canal links the Pacific and Atlantic Oceans, significantly shortening shipping routes.

In December 2024, Trump criticized Panama for imposing "unreasonable" fees on U.S. naval and commercial vessels using the canal. He also raised concerns about growing Chinese influence in the region, warning that it jeopardizes U.S. interests given the canal's critical role in global trade.

Approximately 5% of global maritime traffic passes through the Panama Canal annually. The U.S. accounts for 74% of the canal's usage, with China representing 21%.

"If Panama cannot ensure the safe, efficient, and reliable operation of the canal, the U.S. will demand its return—no questions asked," Trump wrote on social media.

Global and Political Repercussions

Trump’s remarks have sparked significant criticism domestically and abroad. Experts warn that such comments could escalate tensions with key allies and trading partners.

"This rhetoric is destabilizing and undermines decades of diplomatic efforts," said Lawrence Korb, a former U.S. Assistant Secretary of Defense.

Others view Trump’s statements as part of his negotiation strategy, leveraging bold claims to secure better terms in economic or security deals.

"Trump is using his characteristic brinkmanship to assert U.S. interests, but turning such threats into action would be reckless and counterproductive," Korb added.

While Trump’s rhetoric has reignited debates about U.S. territorial ambitions, analysts agree that military action to acquire Greenland or the Panama Canal remains highly unlikely and fraught with international and legal challenges.

(Reported by AP, CNN, and USA Today)

Hello Shuttle will strive to bring the latest updates. At the end of the day.

Are you looking for reliable airport and cruise port transfer services in Los Angeles?

We offer professional, safe, and punctual transportation from

Los Angeles Airport - LAX

Long Beach Airport - LGB

John Wayne Airport - SNA

San Pedro cruise port

Long Beach cruise port

Disneyland

and other destinations.

Let us make your journey stress-free and comfortable with our dedicated drivers and high-quality vehicles. Book now for the perfect travel experience at www.helloshuttle.com or call 944-800-5678!