Rep. Buddy Carter, a Republican from Georgia, is backing former President Donald Trump’s long-standing ambition to acquire Greenland, taking it a step further with a proposal to rename the island “Red, White and Blueland.”
A Controversial Proposal Gains Momentum
The idea of the U.S. purchasing Greenland first surfaced during Trump’s presidency, sparking both intrigue and backlash. Now, with Trump once again a dominant force in American politics, the proposal has resurfaced—this time with legislative backing.
Carter introduced the “Red, White, and Blueland Act of 2025” on Tuesday, arguing that the addition of Greenland would serve as a national security asset and a symbol of American expansion. His press release framed the move as a patriotic effort to “welcome its people to join the freest nation to ever exist.”
Denmark, which governs Greenland as an autonomous territory, has repeatedly dismissed any suggestion that the island is for sale. Danish Prime Minister Mette Frederiksen previously called the idea “absurd,” but that hasn’t stopped U.S. lawmakers from pursuing the possibility.
Strategic Interests and Political Calculations
Greenland is not just an icy expanse in the North Atlantic. It holds significant geopolitical value due to its location between North America and Europe, its rich natural resources, and its strategic military positioning.
- The U.S. already operates the Thule Air Base in northern Greenland, a crucial part of its missile defense system.
- The island is believed to have untapped mineral deposits, including rare earth elements vital for technology and defense industries.
- Control over Greenland would enhance American influence in the Arctic, a region of increasing competition between the U.S., Russia, and China.
Carter and Trump’s supporters argue that acquiring Greenland would strengthen national security and boost economic opportunities. Opponents, however, see the plan as unrealistic and diplomatically reckless.
Denmark’s Stance: ‘Not for Sale’
Denmark has been firm on its position. Prime Minister Frederiksen reiterated on multiple occasions that Greenland is not up for negotiation, emphasizing the territory’s autonomy and strong ties to Copenhagen. Greenland’s own government, which governs internal affairs, has also rejected the notion of a sale.
Yet, Trump and his allies have remained undeterred. The former president, known for his real estate background, previously compared the acquisition to “a large real estate deal.” His supporters see this as a matter of national ambition, while critics view it as an unrealistic fantasy.
Could This Actually Happen?
The proposal faces significant hurdles—both diplomatically and legally. Even if the U.S. government were willing to make an offer, Denmark and Greenland would have to agree. Historically, the U.S. has purchased land from other nations, such as the 1867 purchase of Alaska from Russia. But times have changed, and outright land acquisitions are rare in modern geopolitics.
A potential scenario, experts say, could involve a long-term partnership or increased American investment in Greenland’s economy rather than outright ownership. While the idea of “Red, White and Blueland” might appeal to a certain political base, the practical road to such a transformation remains highly uncertain.
