Mon Dec 23 19:30:00 UTC 2024: ## Trump Renews Bids for Greenland, Panama Canal Control Amidst Pre-Inauguration Tensions

**WEST PALM BEACH, Florida** – President-elect Donald Trump is reigniting his controversial proposals to purchase Greenland from Denmark and reclaim control of the Panama Canal, escalating tensions with allied nations even before his January 20th inauguration. His latest pronouncements follow similar suggestions regarding Canada’s annexation.

In a Sunday announcement naming his ambassador to Denmark, Trump declared Greenland’s ownership and control an “absolute necessity” for U.S. national security and global freedom. This echoes his unsuccessful attempts to buy Greenland during his first term. Simultaneously, he threatened to retake the Panama Canal if shipping costs aren’t reduced, claiming the U.S. is being “ripped off.” He further suggested Canada should become the 51st U.S. state, referring to Prime Minister Justin Trudeau as “governor.”

Greenland’s Prime Minister, Múte Bourup Egede, dismissed Trump’s claims, stating Greenland is “not for sale.” Panama’s President, José Raúl Mulino, similarly rejected Trump’s demands, asserting full Panamanian ownership of the canal. Trump, however, retorted on social media, posting a picture of a U.S. flag planted in the canal zone with the caption, “Welcome to the United States Canal!”

Political science professor Stephen Farnsworth suggests Trump’s aggressive tactics are a carryover from his business dealings, aiming for concessions through unreasonable demands. He believes Trump’s actions towards Greenland are ultimately intended to pressure Norway into making concessions. Similarly, his pronouncements concerning Canada are likely aimed at securing trade deals or border adjustments.

The Panama Canal’s current challenges stem from 2023 droughts affecting its reservoirs, leading to reduced daily slots and increased fees. These recent pronouncements from Trump add to already tense international relations, creating uncertainty in the lead-up to his second term.

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