Greenlandic leaders and Danish officials are facing intensified diplomatic strain as U.S. President Donald Trump renews efforts to acquire Greenland, escalating tensions within the NATO alliance.
The push has triggered heightened political activity in Copenhagen and Nuuk, with Greenlandic representatives fielding growing international attention and urgent consultations.
Greenland remains self-governing within the Kingdom of Denmark, though Copenhagen retains authority over defense and foreign policy.
Both Greenlandic members of Denmark’s parliament have described widespread unease among the island’s population as U.S. rhetoric sharpens.
Greenland’s Prime Minister Jens-Frederik Nielsen and Danish Prime Minister Mette Frederiksen have emphasized unity ahead of high-level talks in Washington.
Greenlandic officials have categorically rejected any notion of a sale, framing the idea as an affront to the population’s identity and self-determination.
“The mere talk of being able to buy another people is disrespectful.”
Greenlandic lawmakers have stressed that the population does not wish to become American or remain under colonial arrangements.
Since December, President Trump has repeatedly asserted that U.S. ownership of Greenland is a strategic necessity, reviving proposals first raised during his earlier term.
“It’s easier,” Trump said Sunday, referring to buying the island.
“But one way or the other, we’re going to have Greenland.”
Greenlandic and Danish leaders have stated they will present a joint position in discussions with U.S. Vice President JD Vance and Secretary of State Marco Rubio.
Danish officials have described the dispute as the most serious foreign relations crisis the kingdom has faced in decades.
The Trump administration has not ruled out military options, contributing to anxiety among Greenlandic citizens and officials.
Concerns have been amplified by broader global actions attributed to the U.S., including the recent abduction of Venezuela’s President Nicolas Maduro by U.S. special forces.
Greenlandic media leaders and politicians have said the pressure has been deeply unsettling for both elected officials and the public.
Upcoming talks in Washington are seen as potentially decisive for Greenland’s future position amid growing geopolitical interest.