The United States has not abandoned its plans to militarily take over Greenland, Reuters reported, citing sources.
„The comments sowed confusion and alarm in Washington and among US allies. On Capitol Hill, Democrats and Republicans began to express concern – "The administration appears to be once again taking a major military action without first consulting Congress," the report said, citing two sources familiar with the situation.
Meanwhile, lawmakers have reportedly briefed Secretary of State Marco Rubio and senior White House officials about the possibility of impeaching Trump if he intervenes militarily in Greenland, according to sources.
Despite the apparent easing of tensions over the island and discussions between the US president and NATO Secretary General Mark Rutte about purchasing the island, administration officials said a military takeover of Greenland was never seriously considered.
Greenland is part of the Kingdom of Denmark. However, US President Donald Trump has repeatedly said that the island should become part of the United States. Danish and Greenlandic authorities have warned Washington not to seize the island, noting that they expect their territorial integrity to be respected.
Trump announced the imposition of a 10% tariff on Denmark, Norway, Sweden, France, Germany, the United Kingdom, the Netherlands and Finland in February, which will subsequently increase to 25% and remain in force until the United States concludes a deal to purchase Greenland.