President-elect Donald Trump sparked fresh controversy on Tuesday by suggesting the use of military and economic strategies to expand U.S. influence, including taking control of the Panama Canal, acquiring Greenland, and enacting “economic force” against Canada.
Military and Economic Strategies for Expansion
During a wide-ranging press conference at his Mar-a-Lago resort, Trump was asked whether he could rule out military action to secure Panama or Greenland. “No, I can’t assure you on either of those two,” Trump replied, adding, “We need them for economic security.” He emphasized that Canada, however, would face only “economic force.”
Trump floated the idea of eliminating the U.S.-Canada border, saying, “You get rid of that artificially drawn line, and it’s better for national security. We’re spending hundreds of billions a year to protect Canada and lose in trade deficits.”
Trump also joked about Canada becoming the 51st state and even teased legendary hockey player Wayne Gretzky about becoming its “governor.” The comments follow Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau’s sudden resignation amid internal party strife over Trump’s threats of 25% tariffs.
Renewed Interest in Greenland
Trump revived his long-standing ambition to acquire Greenland, a Danish territory, citing national security concerns. “We need it for greater national security purposes,” he said, claiming Denmark’s legal right to the island was dubious. Trump threatened high tariffs on Denmark if it obstructed Greenland’s independence or U.S. annexation.
Trump’s eldest son, Donald Trump Jr., was on the island Tuesday filming for a documentary alongside incoming White House officials.
Panama Canal and Accusations Against China
On Panama, Trump alleged unfair treatment regarding U.S. ship tolls and claimed Panama was “violating” agreements with the U.S. He warned of a potential effort to reclaim the canal, criticizing Panama for seeking $3 billion in U.S. aid while accusing China of “basically taking it over.”
Promises of a “Golden Age”
Throughout the press conference, Trump provided few specifics on how he would execute these ambitious plans but pledged to usher in a “golden age” for America. “This will be the golden age of America,” he declared, emphasizing improved national security and what he termed “common sense” policies.
As Trump prepares to take office, his bold vision for expanding the U.S. footprint is already drawing sharp criticism and intrigue, setting the stage for potentially seismic shifts in global politics.
