Pressure is mounting on the United States Congress to rein in President Donald Trump‘s ongoing pursuit of acquiring Greenland. Experts and lawmakers from both parties have expressed concerns that Trump’s fixation on the territory poses risks to diplomatic relations and political stability. Since his initial term, Trump has frequently suggested the idea of annexing Greenland, a sentiment that Danish Prime Minister Mette Frederiksen dismissed as “absurd” in 2019. Recently, however, Trump has intensified his rhetoric, claiming the acquisition is of “strategic importance” for U.S. national security.
Critics argue that Congress must assert its authority, as outlined in Article I of the Constitution, to prevent Trump from pursuing this contentious agenda. Jason Furman, a former chairman of the Council of Economic Advisers under President Obama, stated, “The President’s approach to Greenland is only the latest reason that Congress urgently should reclaim its powers.” He emphasized that fiscal policies, including tariffs, should be established through collective legislative action rather than by unilateral executive decisions.
The call for Congressional action has gained traction following Trump’s recent comments suggesting that the acquisition could be achieved through force. Some lawmakers have voiced their alarm, with Rep. Don Bacon describing the president’s statements as “about the dumbest thing I’ve heard.” Bacon highlighted the damaging implications of threatening an ally and stressed that negotiation should not involve coercion.
On Capitol Hill, discussions about invoking the 25th Amendment to remove Trump from office have emerged, particularly after he sent a controversial letter to Norwegian Prime Minister Jonas Gahr Støre. This letter implied that Trump’s desire to acquire Greenland was linked to his disappointment over not winning the Nobel Peace Prize. Senator Ed Markey remarked that the situation warranted serious consideration of impeachment proceedings, citing Trump’s “loss of rationality” in his communications regarding Greenland.
Amidst rising tensions, a bipartisan delegation of U.S. lawmakers visited Denmark to reassure its leaders that many in Congress do not support Trump’s ambitions. Among the delegation were Senators Thom Tillis and Lisa Murkowski, who have both openly criticized the administration’s stance. Tillis emphasized the need for balance among government branches, stating that any attempt to annex sovereign territory would face “substantial opposition” in Congress.
While Trump has claimed that he does not require Congressional approval for his actions, his frequent sidestepping of legislative authority has raised concerns among Republicans about the long-term implications for U.S. foreign relations. Some lawmakers are now advocating for war powers resolutions to limit the president’s ability to engage in military operations without Congressional consent.
The broader implications of Trump’s Greenland rhetoric extend beyond the immediate political landscape. Brian Mast, Chairman of the House Foreign Affairs Committee, has warned that the loss of credibility for the GOP could hinder future negotiations with international partners. He noted, “Credibility once lost is not easily restored,” urging the party to prioritize diplomacy over aggressive tactics.
As Congress grapples with the ramifications of Trump’s fixation on Greenland, the potential for bipartisan cooperation appears necessary to navigate the complexities of U.S. foreign policy. With many lawmakers expressing concern about the president’s approach, the coming weeks may reveal whether Congress will take decisive action to reclaim its constitutional powers and restore diplomatic norms.
