Congressman Fine Introduces Greenland Annexation and Statehood Act

Legislation Introduced to Annex Greenland

On January 12, 2026, Congressman Randy Fine (FL-06) introduced the Greenland Annexation and Statehood Act in the U.S. Congress. The landmark legislation seeks to authorize the President to take necessary steps to annex or acquire Greenland as a territory of the United States, with the ultimate goal of admitting it as an official U.S. state.

According to Congressman Fine, the bill is primarily focused on securing America's strategic national security interests in the Arctic region and countering the growing influence and threats posed by China and Russia. Fine emphasized the strategic importance of the island, stating, 'Greenland is not a distant outpost we can afford to ignore—it is a vital national security asset.' He further added, 'Whoever controls Greenland controls key Arctic shipping lanes and the security architecture protecting the United States. America cannot leave that future in the hands of regimes that despise our values and seek to undermine our security.'

Strategic Importance of the Arctic

The introduction of this act comes amidst intensified global competition in the Arctic. The United States has long viewed Greenland as vital to its national security, with historical interest dating back to the 19th century and multiple past attempts to purchase the island from Denmark. The Arctic's strategic value is underscored by its critical location at the intersection of North America, Europe, and the Arctic, making it crucial for military security and movement across the northern Atlantic.

Concerns have been raised by U.S. officials regarding the expanding presence of Russia and China in the region. Russia is reportedly constructing military installations and power plants, while China has launched its Arctic policy, also known as the 'Polar Silk Road,' and has shown interest in Greenland's vast mineral resources, including rare earth minerals. The melting ice in the Arctic also opens up new shipping routes, such as the Northern Sea Route, which could significantly shorten global shipping times.

Bill Details and International Reactions

The proposed legislation would authorize the President to negotiate a deal with Denmark for the acquisition of Greenland. It also mandates the submission of a comprehensive report to Congress outlining the necessary changes to federal law to facilitate Greenland's eventual admission as a U.S. state, similar to how Alaska became a state.

The concept of U.S. acquisition of Greenland has previously been championed by President Donald J. Trump, who has openly advocated for it, at times likening it to a 'large real estate deal.' However, the idea has consistently faced strong opposition. Greenland is a self-governing territory within the Kingdom of Denmark, and both Greenlandic and Danish authorities have repeatedly asserted Greenland's right to self-determination and stated that the island is 'not for sale.' Past proposals have drawn 'strong rebukes' from leaders in Greenland, Denmark, and other European nations. Notably, EU Defense Commissioner Andrius Kubilius reportedly stated that a U.S. military takeover of Greenland 'will be the end of NATO.'