Greenland’s Prime Minister Declares Support for Denmark Over U.S.

Greenland’s Prime Minister, Jens-Frederik Nielsen, has firmly rejected U.S. President Donald Trump‘s recent threats regarding the territory, asserting that Greenland would choose to remain aligned with Denmark if forced to make a decision. During a press conference in Copenhagen alongside Danish Prime Minister Mette Frederiksen, Nielsen emphasized Greenland’s strong ties to the Kingdom of Denmark, NATO, and the European Union.

The current tensions stem from Trump’s ongoing claims that acquiring Greenland is essential for American national security due to its vast mineral resources and strategic position in the Arctic. His interest in Greenland first emerged in 2019 when he suggested purchasing the island from Denmark, a proposal that was promptly dismissed. The topic resurfaced following Trump’s re-election in late 2024, and recent comments have escalated the situation. The U.S. president stated that the U.S. would secure Greenland “one way or the other,” highlighting its importance in countering Russian and Chinese influence in the region.

Greenland, which has a population of approximately 57,000 residents living over an area of 2.16 million square kilometres—80 percent of which is covered by ice—is rich in resources like uranium and rare earth minerals. The U.S. already maintains a military presence in Greenland at the Thule Air Base, established under a defense agreement in 1951. However, Trump argues that this arrangement is insufficient to address current geopolitical challenges.

Nielsen’s statements reflect a consensus among Greenland’s political parties, all of which have united in rejecting Trump’s overtures. In a statement, they declared, “We do not want to be Americans, we do not want to be Danes, we want to be Greenlanders,” underscoring their desire for self-determination without external pressure. Nielsen added, “If we have to choose between the USA and Denmark here and now, we choose Denmark.”

This diplomatic standoff occurs as Greenland pursues gradual independence. A 2009 agreement recognizes its right to secede from Denmark if desired, a process supported by Denmark, which provides essential aid. The annual block grant from Denmark amounts to approximately £380 million ($511 million), constituting about 20 percent of Greenland’s GDP. Frederiksen acknowledged the challenges of resisting pressure from a key ally while reaffirming Denmark’s solidarity with Greenland.

The situation has raised alarms within NATO, with experts warning that any forced takeover could jeopardize the alliance. U.S. Senator Chris Murphy highlighted that NATO members would be obligated to defend Denmark, potentially leading to conflict with European nations. EU defense officials have invoked Article 42.7, which mandates support for attacked members.

NATO Secretary General Mark Rutte has refrained from direct criticism, focusing instead on collective Arctic defense and welcoming Denmark’s acquisition of additional F-35 fighter jets. Countries like France and Germany have participated in joint military exercises in Greenland, signaling increased vigilance in the region.

Representatives from the U.S., Denmark, and Greenland are scheduled for discussions on January 14, 2026, at the White House to address Trump’s threats regarding Greenland. Both sides have expressed a willingness to engage in dialogue on shared security and resource management, although this episode underscores the fragility of international partnerships in an increasingly complex geopolitical landscape.