US President Donald Trump made new statements about his territorial claims to Greenland, confirming plans to seize the island. Thus, he stated that if the US does not seize Greenland, Russia or China will do it.
"And I won't let that happen," - he emphasized.
Trump added that he would like to go diplomatically and make a deal, “but one way or another, we’re going to have Greenland.” He also stated that this is about purchasing, not leasing, and not short-term ownership.
"We're going to do something about Greenland, whether they like it or not. Because if we don't, Russia or China will take over Greenland, and we don't want Russia or China as neighbors." Trump said.
The American leader also added that he "loves the people of China and Russia," but does not want them to be the United States' neighbors in Greenland.
Trump also disparaged the island's defense capabilities, saying that "their defenses are two dog teams."
When asked whether the possible seizure of Greenland would affect NATO, the US president admitted this possibility, but stated that "They need us much more than we need them."
"I like NATO. I just wonder if we needed NATO, would they be there? You know, we spend a lot of money on NATO, and I'm not sure they would be there." he said.
