Secretary of State Marco Rubio affirmed President Trump’s serious interest in acquiring Greenland, emphasizing national security concerns due to China’s growing interest in the Arctic.

Rubio explained that the U.S. would benefit from controlling Greenland, especially given China’s potential to build facilities there for military purposes.

While Trump has expressed interest in purchasing the island, Greenlandic leaders reject the idea, wanting to remain independent.

Despite a tense phone call between Trump and Danish Prime Minister Mette Frederiksen, Rubio argued that U.S. control over Greenland would be more effective in deterring China, as Denmark alone lacks the capability, The Hill has reported.

This week, Denmark announced a $2 billion security package to strengthen defense in the Arctic region.

Written by B.C. Begley