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Trump and his geopolitical “Risk”: “I do not rule out military force for Panama and Greenland”.

Fiery statements from the president-elect: threats of annexation, tariffs against Canada and Denmark, pressure on NATO and internal deregulation. International reactions are not long in coming.

Trump and his geopolitical “Risk”: “I do not rule out military force for Panama and Greenland”.

In his first press conference of 2025, Donald Trump laid out a foreign and domestic policy agenda marked by incendiary statements and controversial plans. From his Florida resort, Mar-a-Lago, the president-elect painted a picture of an America poised to reassert its global influence through a combination of assertive diplomacy, economic threats and possible military action. Here are the highlights of his strategy.

Greenland: A New Frontier for the United States?

One of the central themes of the conference was Greenland. Trump revived the idea of ​​annexing the world's largest island, calling it a strategic goal for the security and progress of the United States. "They and the free world need safety, security, strength and peace. This is a deal that must happen. Make Greenland great again!" Trump declared, recalling his famous campaign slogan.

Donald Trump Jr.’s visit to Nuuk confirmed interest in the island. The president’s son described a “great welcome” as the Trump family’s personal jet landed on a snowy runway near a fjord. Despite the Trump family’s enthusiasm, Denmark responded firmly. Prime Minister Mette Frederiksen reiterated that “Greenland belongs to the Greenlanders and is not for sale.” At the same time, King Frederik changed the royal coat of arms, enlarging the symbols of Greenland and the Faroe Islands, a clear signal of support for the Danish autonomous regions.

The Panama Canal: A Strategic Resource

Trump then turned his attention to the Panama Canal, calling it a critical asset to America’s economy and security. “It was built for our military. We need it to ensure our economic prosperity,” he said, raising the possibility of tariffs or even military intervention to secure more direct control over the canal.

Economic Threats: Canada in the Crosshairs

Canada has been a major target of Trump’s statements. The president-elect has criticized the trade deficit between the two countries, threatening to impose tariffs on Canadian products. “We don’t need their products. We could get rid of that artificially constructed border,” he said, hinting at the possibility of Canada reuniting with the United States as the 51st state.

Canada’s reaction was immediate. Foreign Minister Melanie Jolie told X: “We will never bow to threats.” Outgoing Prime Minister Justin Trudeau added: “Canada will never, ever be part of the United States.”

NATO and defense spending

Trump also leveled criticism at NATO allies, calling for a defense spending increase to 5% of GDP. He warned that the U.S. umbrella of protection could be withdrawn if alliance members did not comply. “Everyone can afford it,” he argued, accusing allies of not doing enough for common security.

Symbolic Changes: The Gulf of America

One of Trump’s most curious statements concerns the Gulf of Mexico, which he proposed renaming “Gulf of America.” The move, perceived as a symbolic gesture, has provoked mixed reactions both in the United States and abroad.

Domestic Policies: Deregulation and Investment

Domestically, Trump announced the lifting of Biden's ban on offshore drilling, making it easier for companies to invest in the United States to obtain permits. He also celebrated a $20 billion investment by Emirati tycoon Hussain Sajwani to build data centers. This investment is in addition to the $100 billion already announced in December by the Sofitel group.

Legal victories

On the legal front, Trump scored a major victory. Federal Judge Aileen Cannon blocked the release of Special Counsel Jack Smith’s report on the secret Mar-a-Lago papers, at least until an appeals court rules. The development strengthens the president-elect’s legal position in a case that has dominated headlines in recent years.

International Relations: The Meloni Episode

Trump concluded the conference by praising his relationships with international leaders. He cited the lightning visit of Italian Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni to Mar-a-Lago, describing it as a sign of respect for America. He also recalled the warm welcome he received from French President Emmanuel Macron in Paris.

Donald Trump

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