Trump doesn't rule out use of force over Panama canal, Greenland

PALM BEACH,— U.S. President-elect Donald Trump on Tuesday declined to rule out military or economic measures in pursuing the acquisition of the Panama Canal and Greenland, highlighting a controversial expansionist vision he has promoted since winning the November 5 election.

Trump, who is set to take office on January 20, 2025, suggested the moves were crucial for “economic security” during a press conference at his Florida resort. He also proposed making Canada a U.S. state, demanded NATO allies increase defense spending, and floated renaming the Gulf of Mexico as the Gulf of America.

“No, I can’t assure you,” Trump said when asked if he would refrain from coercive actions in these efforts. “We need these assets for economic security.” Trump further criticized trade with Canada and U.S. defense spending in the region, calling the border between the two countries an “artificial line.”

The comments sparked sharp rebukes from international leaders. Danish Prime Minister Mette Frederiksen reaffirmed that Greenland, an autonomous territory under Denmark, is not for sale. Frederiksen stressed that close allies should not fight over finances.

Trump has previously described Greenland as vital to U.S. national security. His son, Donald Trump Jr., visited the island this week, though no official statements were made about the trip.

Canadian Foreign Minister Mélanie Joly dismissed Trump’s remarks as “threats” and tweeted, “Canada will never back down. Our economy and people are strong.”

Panama also rejected the suggestion of U.S. control over its waterway. “The Panama Canal belongs to Panamanians, and it will remain that way,” said Panama’s Foreign Minister Javier Martinez-Acha.

Trump called for NATO members to spend 5% of their GDP on defense, far exceeding the current 2% target. “They should be at 5%, not 2%. It’s only fair,” Trump said, reiterating complaints about unequal financial contributions.

NATO estimates show only 23 of its 32 members will meet the 2% target in 2024. Poland, at 4.12%, currently leads spending as a percentage of GDP.

The President-elect also addressed the ongoing Israel-Hamas conflict, issuing a warning to Hamas regarding hostages abducted during the October 2023 attacks. Trump warned, If they are not released by January 20, “all hell will break out in the Middle East”

His Middle East envoy, Steve Witkoff, indicated ongoing negotiations but provided no specifics.

Trump defended Elon Musk’s involvement in foreign policy discussions after the billionaire voiced support for Germany’s far-right Alternative for Germany party.

“Elon is a smart guy, and he’s doing a good job,” Trump said, while downplaying concerns about Musk’s political statements.

Trump’s remarks have drawn comparisons to 19th-century imperialism and prompted criticism from experts, including Ambassador Daniel Fried, who warned that such policies could undermine NATO unity.

(With files from Reuters)