Trump says ‘massive’ oil, gas, mineral exploration to begin in Greenland after security deal

US President Donald Trump announced on October 14 that the exploration of oil, gas, and minerals would commence in Greenland. Trump celebrated Greenland's strategic position for US and European security, stating that any future attack on the United States would have to navigate through the island, where American defenses would intercept drones, missiles, or any other unconventional weapons.

The security deal between the United States and Greenland and Denmark was finalized in September. As part of the agreement, the US will construct two military bases in southern and eastern Greenland, in Narsarsuaq and Mestersvig. Additionally, the existing Pituffik base in the north will continue to operate.

Greenland, situated along the shortest route for missiles between Russia and the United States, holds immense strategic importance for Trump's vision of a "Golden Dome" defense shield. The island is also rich in untapped rare earth deposits and has the potential to play a critical role as melting polar ice opens up new shipping routes.

Trump asserted that the amount of easily accessible oil in Greenland surpasses that of almost anywhere else in the world. However, he refrained from disclosing specifics about American involvement.

In August, media reports revealed US oil company operations in a remote region of eastern Greenland, causing unease among locals and authorities on the island.