Greenland must make its own choice on independence, Danish PM tells Trump in call

• The issue has taken on new importance since Trump hasn't ruled out using military force to take control of Greenland as he returns to the White House.
• Greenland views itself as an autonomous country that is part of the Kingdom of Denmark, and it has the option of declaring its independence under the 2009 Greenland Self-Government Act.
• Denmark has sent Trump private messages expressing willingness to discuss boosting security in Greenland or increasing the U.S. military presence on the island, Axios previously reported.

Zoom in: Frederiksen in her call with Trump reiterated Greenland Prime Minister Múte Egede's statement "that Greenland is not for sale," according to a Danish press release.

• "The Prime Minister has argued that it is up to Greenland itself to make a decision on independence," a translated version of the release said.
• Trump's representatives did not immediately respond to Axios' request for comment.

Flashback: Frederiksen and Trump have a tense history on the issue.

• During his first term, Trump canceled a trip to Denmark after the prime minister called the idea of the U.S. purchasing Greenland "absurd." Trump at the time called her comments "nasty" and "inappropriate."

The bottom line: The main question is whether Trump would be content to cut a deal with Denmark and declare victory, or whether his true mission is to become the first president in 80 years to gain new territory for the U.S., Axios' Barak Ravid and Dave Lawler report.

More from Axios:

• Scoop: Denmark sent Trump team private messages on Greenland
• House GOP crafts bill to let Trump purchase Greenland
• Denmark bolstering Greenland defense after Trump ownership comments