U.S. President Donald Trump reaffirmed his controversial pledges to reclaim the Panama Canal and acquire Greenland during an address to a joint session of Congress on Tuesday, citing national security concerns as justification for both moves.

Trump declared that his administration has already initiated efforts to regain control of the Panama Canal, blaming former President Jimmy Carter for ceding it to Panama under the 1977 Torrijos-Carter Treaties. “We’re reclaiming it to enhance our security,” he stated, arguing that U.S. control of the waterway is vital for strategic and economic interests.

Turning to Greenland, Trump reiterated his support for the island’s 60,000 residents to “determine their own future,” while extending an invitation for Greenland to join the United States. “We need Greenland for national and international security,” he said, emphasizing its strategic military importance despite its sparse population and vast territory.

Trump also hinted at ongoing negotiations regarding Greenland’s status, stating, “We’re going to get it one way or the other.” His comments mark a continuation of his long-standing interest in acquiring the Arctic island, which he first floated during his presidency in 2019.

Greenland, an autonomous Danish territory since 1979, remains under Denmark’s control in matters of foreign and defense policy. Danish officials have repeatedly dismissed the notion of selling the island, reaffirming that Greenland is not for sale.

Trump’s remarks have sparked renewed scrutiny amid escalating geopolitical tensions, with critics warning that such assertions could further strain U.S. relations with Panama and Denmark. (ILKHA)