A Republican lawmaker in the United States has introduced draft legislation that would grant President Donald Trump the authority to pursue the annexation of Greenland and its incorporation as the 51st US state, according to reporting by Axios.
The bill, titled the Greenland Annexation and Statehood Act, has been submitted to the United States House of Representatives. Axios notes that the proposal has little chance of advancing through Congress but is seen as a symbolic move by some Republicans seeking to align themselves with Trump, who has previously expressed interest in acquiring Greenland, either through purchase or other means.
Huge News! Today, I am proud to introduce the Greenland Annexation and Statehood Act, a bill that allows the President to find the means necessary to bring Greenland into the Union.
— Congressman Randy Fine (@RepFine) January 12, 2026
Let me be clear, our adversaries are trying to establish a foothold in the Arctic, and we can’t… pic.twitter.com/h28sXU7LAU
Strategic argument, political resistance
According to Axios, the lawmaker behind the bill argues that US control of Greenland would significantly strengthen Washington’s strategic position in the Arctic, particularly in relation to emerging shipping routes and national security considerations as polar ice continues to recede.
However, the proposal has drawn criticism not only from Democrats but also from within the Republican Party itself. Greenland is an autonomous territory within the Kingdom of Denmark, which is a member of NATO, and the idea of annexing territory belonging to a close ally has raised concerns about diplomatic fallout and alliance cohesion.
Wider geopolitical implications
Axios also highlights the broader geopolitical ramifications of such initiatives. European and international observers have reacted critically, underlining the importance of respecting sovereignty and maintaining stability within NATO at a time of heightened global tensions.
While the bill is unlikely to progress, its introduction underscores how Greenland’s strategic location and resources continue to feature in US political discourse, particularly amid growing competition in the Arctic and renewed debate over American global influence.