President Trump had a special message on Tuesday night for the “incredible people of Greenland,” whose island he has repeatedly expressed interest in acquiring — through a purchase or by force.

       “We strongly support your right to determine your own future,” he said, briefly pausing during a speech to Congress to address Greenlanders directly. Then, with a confident nod, he added, “We will make you rich.”

       Some members of Congress responded with a mix of applause, murmurs — and a few smiles. Greenlanders weren’t so enthused.

       “It is up to us whether we become rich,” said Pele Broberg, the leader of one of Greenland’s major political parties.

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       Mr. Trump has been talking about acquiring Greenland, a large island in the Arctic Ocean, since his first term, but this was the first time he addressed the island’s 56,000 residents so directly and prominently.

       “It’s a very small population but very, very large piece of land and very, very important for military security,” he told lawmakers.

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