President Donald Trump urged Greenland on Tuesday (US time) to choose to join the United States. The President, however, vowed to take the Danish-ruled island “one way or the other.”

In his speech to the US Congress Trump underlined his expansionist vision of the United States, as he repeated his aspirations to take Greenland.

“We strongly support your right to determine your own future, and if you choose, we welcome you into the United States of America,” Trump said during the address at the US Capitol, Washington DC.

Trump’s remark comes days before general elections in mineral-rich Greenland, an autonomous territory of Denmark with an independence movement.

Trump began his comments on Greenland, saying that he had a message for the “incredible people” of the sparsely populated and strategically-placed island. But he made clear he would not give up if persuasion fails, saying, “one way or the other we are going to get it.”

“We will keep you safe, we will make you rich, and together, we will take Greenland to heights like you have never thought possible before,” he said.

Trump also vowed to take back the Panama Canal, the crucial link between the Atlantic and Pacific oceans that the United States handed to Panama at the end of 1999.

“We didn’t give it to China. We gave it to Panama. We’re taking it back,” Trump said. Trump had earlier not ruled out military force to seize either the Panama Canal or Greenland.

Trump addressed the joint session of Congress on Tuesday night (US time). The address lasted about 100 minutes and was his first major speech to lawmakers since returning to the White House six weeks ago in January.

One way or the other we are going to get it.

The speech touched on several of Trump’s favourite topics, including his administration’s US immigration policies and a strengthened law and order situation. President Trump basked in Republican applause for his administration’s swift early actions during the speech at the House chamber in the US Capitol.

Key Takeaways

• Trump’s vision for U.S. expansion includes acquiring Greenland and reclaiming the Panama Canal.
• The remarks indicate a willingness to use military force if necessary, showcasing a controversial stance on territorial claims.
• The speech highlights ongoing tensions and aspirations related to U.S. foreign policy and territorial integrity.