Bild: Trump eyes Greenland, Panama Canal in ambitious expansion plan

The designated president, Donald Trump, has outlined plans to not only make the United States "great" but to make it larger—both geographically and strategically.

Trump, a Republican, first brought up the vast, icy territory of Greenland, which belongs to Denmark. Days later, he also proposed the return of the Panama Canal, one of the most crucial structures in international shipping, Caliber.Az reports via Bild.

In an announcement that sent shockwaves through diplomatic circles, Trump revealed his intention to buy the 2.16 million square kilometre landmasses of Greenland from Denmark. While he did not specify a price, the deal could potentially offer a sum that would tempt the Scandinavian nation.

On his online platform, Truth Social, Trump elaborated on his reasoning, stating, "In the interest of national security and freedom in the world, the United States believes that ownership and control of Greenland are an absolute necessity." This wasn’t the first time Trump had floated such an idea—he had made a similar proposal during his first term. But why Greenland?

The answer lies in its strategic location. The island sits almost equidistant between the United States and Russia, making it a highly coveted area. Since World War II, the US has operated the Thule Air Base in Greenland, a crucial military outpost for the country. Its significance remains substantial for American security interests.

Trump's expansionist ambitions also extend beyond the Arctic. In addition to Greenland, he has voiced frustration over the Panama Canal, which the US controlled until it was handed back to Panama in 1999. Trump is particularly displeased with the exorbitant toll fees that vessels must pay to pass through the canal, which can amount to as much as $300,000.

According to Trump, "The costs of crossing the canal are a total rip-off. It drives up consumer prices in the United States." He points out that three-quarters of the mega-freighters using the canal are en route to American ports, and he believes this financial burden could be avoided if the US regained control of the passage.

By Aghakazim Guliyev