Copenhagen: Greenland’s Prime Minister Jens Frederik Nielsen has stated clearly that his people would choose Denmark over the United States if forced to decide now, as tensions rise over renewed US interest in annexing the Arctic island. Speaking alongside Danish Prime Minister Mette Frederiksen, Nielsen said Greenland does not wish to be owned, governed, or absorbed by the United States.
The statement followed repeated remarks by US President Donald Trump, who has renewed calls for US ownership of Greenland, citing security concerns linked to Russia and China. The White House has floated the idea of purchasing the island and has not ruled out the use of force, triggering alarm across Europe.
Greenland remains a semi autonomous territory under Denmark, a fellow Nato member. Frederiksen strongly criticised what she described as unacceptable pressure from a close ally and warned that any use of military force would undermine the trans Atlantic alliance. She said the most challenging phase of the dispute still lies ahead.
Greenland’s strategic location between North America and the Arctic gives it importance for missile early warning systems and maritime monitoring. The United States already operates a military base at Pituffik in Greenland’s north west, with more than 100 personnel stationed there. Existing agreements with Denmark allow Washington to deploy additional troops if required, though Trump has argued ownership remains his objective.
European allies and Canada have publicly backed Denmark and Greenland, stressing that decisions regarding the island rest solely with Copenhagen and Nuuk. They underlined the need to respect sovereignty, territorial integrity, and international law while addressing Arctic security through collective action.
Nielsen described the current situation as a geopolitical crisis and reaffirmed Greenland’s position without ambiguity. He said the island seeks cooperation with allies while safeguarding its political future. The remarks signal firm resistance from Greenland and Denmark against any attempt to redraw borders through pressure or force.
