President-elect Donald Trump stirred controversy on Tuesday during a news conference at his Mar-a-Lago resort. He suggested the U.S. might use military force to seize the Panama Canal and Greenland, while considering “economic force” to annex Canada.
Trump’s Bold Remarks on Global Control
When a reporter asked if Trump would use military force against Panama or Greenland, he was vague. “No, I can’t assure you on either of those, but we need them for economic security,” Trump responded. He also clarified that he wouldn’t use military force against Canada, but might consider “economic force.”
Trump said taking control of Canada would improve national security. He added that removing the “artificially drawn line” between the U.S. and Canada would make things better. He also criticized the U.S. spending on defense in Canada and the trade deficits.
Canada as the 51st State?
Trump has often suggested that Canada should become the 51st U.S. state. He joked with Canadian hockey legend Wayne Gretzky about running for “governor” of Canada. His remarks came just after Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau’s term ended due to party infighting and Trump’s promised 25% tariffs.
Trump’s Ongoing Interest in Greenland
Trump has long been interested in acquiring Greenland, a Danish territory in the Arctic. Since his 2024 election win, he’s renewed his desire to make the island part of the U.S. He believes the U.S. needs Greenland for national security. Despite its small population, Trump sees it as strategically important.
Trump claimed that Denmark has no legal right to the island and should give it up. He also threatened high tariffs on Denmark if it blocked Greenland’s independence or U.S. annexation. His son, Donald Trump Jr., was on the island Tuesday, filming a documentary with incoming White House officials.
Trump Criticizes Panama Canal Deal
Trump criticized Panama for charging U.S. ships higher tolls than those from other nations. He also accused Panama of violating a deal with the U.S. by requesting $3 billion in canal repairs, while China “takes over” the waterway. Trump hinted that the U.S. might take back control of the canal.
A Vision for U.S. Expansion
Although Trump hasn’t outlined how he plans to execute these ideas, his statements reflect a vision for expanding U.S. influence. Throughout the press conference, he promised to return the U.S. to a “golden age” of national security and “common sense.”
