A billionaire's influence on Trump's territorial ambitions: The Greenland Connection
In a startling revelation, former National Security Adviser John Bolton disclosed that Donald Trump, during his first term, entertained a bold idea. He was approached by a prominent businessman, Ronald Lauder, who suggested the US purchase Greenland. This proposal, originating from a friend of the president, ignited a chain of events that would intertwine personal interests with global politics.
Lauder, heir to the Estée Lauder cosmetics empire, had a long-standing friendship with Trump. After their discussion, a White House team began exploring ways to increase US influence in the Danish-controlled Arctic territory. This is where it gets intriguing: Trump's interest in Greenland seemed to align with Lauder's business ventures.
But here's where it gets controversial: As Trump's threats to seize Greenland intensified, Lauder acquired commercial holdings there. Was this a coincidence or a calculated move? And this is not an isolated incident. Lauder is also part of a consortium seeking access to Ukrainian minerals, a pursuit that seemingly influenced Trump's demands for a share of Ukraine's resources.
Lauder's involvement in Trump's orbit is multifaceted. He donated to Trump's campaign and defended his sanity, even when questioned. In 2018, Lauder claimed to assist Trump with complex diplomatic challenges, potentially including the Arctic expansion idea. The Wall Street Journal later revealed Trump's interest in Greenland, sparking outrage from Denmark's leaders.
Trump's fixation on Greenland persisted, and so did Lauder's. In 2025, after Trump's return to the White House, Lauder defended the idea of a military takeover, citing Greenland's strategic value for its rare-earth elements and emerging maritime routes. He advocated for a US-Greenland strategic partnership, revealing his own investments in the territory.
Danish records show a mysterious New York-based company buying into Greenland, with Lauder among its investors. This group is involved in exporting luxury springwater and pursuing hydroelectric power generation. The potential impact of a US takeover on Lauder's commercial interests remains unclear.
Trump's comments about needing Greenland have raised concerns, with Denmark's prime minister warning against military action within NATO. Yet, Trump remains determined, hinting at a possible invasion. The Danish foreign minister confirmed Trump's desire to conquer Greenland.
Lauder's influence extends to Ukraine. A leaked letter named him as part of a consortium aiming to exploit Ukrainian lithium deposits. While Lauder denied direct discussions with Trump, he had raised the issue with stakeholders. This led to a deal between Washington and Kyiv to jointly exploit Ukraine's minerals, ensuring Trump's continued support.
A thought-provoking question: Is it mere coincidence that Lauder's consortium won the tender for the lithium deposit? The timing raises eyebrows, especially as Lauder resumed financial support for Trump's movement after his return to power.
This story highlights the intricate dance between politics and personal interests. It leaves us wondering: How much influence do billionaires like Lauder have on global affairs, and what does this mean for the future of international relations?
