'Going to do it the hard way': Trump vows action on Greenland; cites risk of Russia, China taking over

President Donald Trump warned that the United States will take action on Greenland, saying it will act “the easy way” or “the hard way” to prevent Russia or China from gaining influence on the Arctic island.Addressing a gathering on Saturday at the White House, Trump said, "We are going to do something on Greenland, whether they like it or not, because if we don't do it, Russia or China will take over Greenland, and we're not going to have Russia or China as a neighbour. I would like to make a deal the easy way, but if not, we are going to do it the hard way.”Emphasising the strategic importance of the island, he said, “When we own it, we defend it...

Look at what happened with the horrible deal Obama made with Iran, which was a short-term deal... Countries need to have ownership... We have to defend Greenland, because if we don't, China or Russia will.”

The Trump administration is reportedly considering offering direct cash payments to Greenlanders to encourage closer ties with the United States. Sources cited by Reuters said officials have discussed lump sums ranging from $10,000 to $100,000 per person.

Greenland, a semi-autonomous Danish territory with around 57,000 residents, is rich in natural resources.Denmark has expressed alarm over the potential US actions, warning that its troops are under standing orders to "shoot first and ask questions later" if Greenland comes under attack. European officials have also voiced concern over the United States openly weighing military options in the Arctic territory.The plan remains at a preliminary stage, with aides estimating that total payments could amount to nearly $6 billion. Another option under discussion is a Compact of Free Association, similar to agreements the US has with several Pacific island nations, in which the United States provides financial aid and defence protection in exchange for military access. Greenland would likely need to become independent from Denmark first, and the payments could be used to encourage public support for such a step or a future agreement with the United States.Polls indicate that most Greenlanders favour independence from Denmark but do not want to become part of the United States.