Graham, who has long been supportive of Nato, has shifted his stance over the issue of Greenland, aligning instead with the Trump Administration.
“Who gives a s*** who owns Greenland?” he said in a recent interview, with Politico on the sidelines of the Munich Security Conference.
He told the website that, after Nato allowed the US to bolster its military presence in the semi-autonomous Danish territory, Europe should stop worrying about Trump’s threats.
“If you’re nervous, have a beer, go see a doctor. Stop being nervous,” he said. “The point is everybody loves Nato.”
“I love it more because people are doing more,” Graham added, referring to a commitment by Nato members to boost defence spending.
“How many of you believe Nato would be contributing this much money if it weren’t for Trump?” Graham asked. “He’s giving them a reason to do it and they’re doing it so let’s celebrate.”
The US President has repeatedly threatened to seize the Arctic island, saying last month that he would “get” it for international security reasons.
Greenland is rich in natural resources, including copper, nickel, and rare earth minerals. These are crucial for AI chips, electric vehicles and other tech, and America is seeking to challenge China’s hold on their global supply.
Trump eventually backed down after a meeting with Mark Rutte, the Nato Secretary-General, long considered to be a “Trump whisperer”.
British Prime Minister Keir Starmer announced this week that the Royal Navy would patrol Greenland for the US by the end of the year.
This month, Nato launched a military effort known as “Arctic Sentry”, which is aimed at improving security in the Arctic, where Russia and China are a growing threat.
“In the face of Russia’s increased military activity and China’s growing interest in the High North, it was crucial that we do more,” Rutte said last week.
General Alexus Grynkewich, of the US Air Force, said in a statement: “Arctic Sentry underscores the alliance’s commitment to safeguard its members and maintain stability in one of the world’s most strategically significant and environmentally challenging areas.”
The Telegraph has approached Graham for comment.
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