A consortium of wildcatters linked to Donald Trump-aligned TV host Dr Phil has delayed plans to develop “$1tn” worth of Greenland oil reserves after the island nation’s government said they had no right to drill. President Trump has repeatedly claimed the US will take control of Greenland.

On Wednesday, UK’s 80 Mile exploration said its plans for the Jameson Land Basin now face delays due to the need for permits. 80 Mile signed a farm-out with US-listed Greenland Energy giving it 70% of the asset in exchange for drilling two wells. Greenland stopped issuing new oil licences in 2021 but 80 Mile holds historical rights.

At the end of July, Greenland’s government issued a strong warning after reports the companies moved $60mn of equipment. Greenland Energy said drilling would be delayed until “winter 2027” due to project complexity. Its shares fell by a third. CEO Robert Price said the company is committed to regulatory compliance.

Stampede Drilling denied sending equipment to the remote site. Earlier, Stampede received $4mn for rig upgrades. Greenland officials said the project is small but received disproportionate attention because of the rhetoric and personalities involved. Dr Phil has partnered with Greenland Energy for a six-part documentary.