Trump says U.S. should control Greenland, hints at Europe troop pullout

During a joint press conference with Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdoğan on the sidelines of the NATO summit in Ankara, U.S. President Donald Trump advocated for American control over Greenland. He described the Arctic island as vital to U.S. national security and strategic interests, stating it "should belong to the United States."

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should belong to the United States

Trump also raised questions about the future of the U.S. military presence in Europe, suggesting a potential withdrawal of all American troops. This statement renews pressure on NATO allies to increase their defense contributions to the alliance's collective security.

Furthermore, Trump signaled a willingness to reconsider Turkey's participation in the F-35 fighter jet program. He indicated that the U.S. has "no concerns about selling F-35 fighter jets to Turkey and will take this matter into consideration." This suggests a potential breakthrough after strained relations, stemming from Turkey's purchase of Russia's S-400 air defense system, which previously led to its removal from the F-35 program.

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might withdraw all our troops from Europe

Trump also criticized NATO members for their perceived lack of support during recent U.S. military operations against Iran. He stated that "NATO countries provided no assistance to the United States in its war against Iran."

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NATO countries provided no assistance to the United States in its war against Iran

These remarks are anticipated to intensify discussions among NATO allies, particularly concerning the U.S. military footprint in Europe and the implications of restoring Turkey's access to the F-35 program. The ongoing talks among Alliance leaders focus on collective defense, regional security, and defense industrial cooperation.

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We have no concerns about selling F-35 fighter jets to Turkey and will take this matter into consideration in our decision