Greenland Rejects U.S. Takeover Demand, Urges NATO to Secure Arctic Territory as Trump Advances Arctic Acquisition Plans

Greenland’s prime minister stated Monday that the Danish autonomous territory will not accept a U.S. takeover under any circumstances, urging NATO to guarantee its defense as President Donald Trump renewed calls for American acquisition of the Arctic island.

In a statement, Prime Minister Jens-Frederik Nielsen emphasized that “The United States has once again reiterated its desire to take over Greenland. This is something the government coalition in Greenland cannot accept under any circumstances.”

Nielsen further noted, “Greenland is part of the Kingdom of Denmark. As a part of the Realm, Greenland is a member of NATO, and the defense of Greenland must therefore be ensured through NATO.” He added that Greenland and Denmark will work within the NATO framework to strengthen defenses around the territory, stressing that regional security is a shared alliance responsibility including for the United States.

“All NATO member states share a common interest in the defense of Greenland,” Nielsen said, adding that future defense development should occur “in close cooperation with NATO.”

The statement came amid President Trump’s recent remarks that the U.S. would take Greenland “one way or another,” which has alarmed leaders in Greenland and Denmark. Trump has openly floated buying or annexing the island, citing national security concerns.

NATO Secretary General Mark Rutte indicated the alliance is discussing “next steps” to bolster Arctic security, though no formal proposal has been approved. Some NATO members have suggested launching a new mission focused on the region.

Trump has argued that Greenland is strategically critical due to its location and untapped natural resources, including rare earth minerals essential for modern technology. The island also hosts a long-standing U.S. military base.

Danish Prime Minister Mette Frederiksen warned that any U.S. military action against Greenland would effectively end NATO. Nevertheless, Denmark has allocated roughly $14 billion in 2025 for regional security enhancements.

Rutte stated that Denmark would not oppose an expanded U.S. military presence on the island. Under a 1951 defense treaty updated in 2004, the United States can deploy additional forces by notifying Copenhagen.

Diplomatic efforts are ongoing, with Danish and Greenlandic officials expected to meet Secretary of State Marco Rubio this week. Danish Foreign Minister Lars Lokke Rasmussen signaled unity by sharing a photo Monday with Greenlandic Foreign Minister Vivian Motzfeldt.

Acknowledging public anxiety, Nielsen said, “I fully understand if there is unease,” while reiterating that Greenland will reject any U.S. takeover.

Greenland, a former Danish colony until 1953, gained home rule in 1979 and has steadily expanded its autonomy, with some leaders openly discussing eventual independence from Denmark.