Greenland Says “We Choose Denmark” Over The US

Greenland’s Prime Minister Jens-Frederik Nielsen has made a firm declaration that the semi-autonomous Arctic territory would choose Denmark over the United States “here and now” if given a choice, rejecting recent pressure from Washington over control of the island. 

Speaking at a joint press conference with Danish Prime Minister Mette Frederiksen in Copenhagen, Nielsen said his government faced a “geopolitical crisis” but remained clear about Greenland’s allegiance. 

“If we have to choose between the United States and Denmark here and now, we choose Denmark,” he said.
“Greenland does not want to be owned by the United States. Greenland does not want to be governed by the United States. Greenland does not want to be part of the United States.”

His remarks represent the strongest public response yet from Greenland’s leadership since former US President Donald Trump renewed interest in acquiring the strategically important island citing national security concerns and potential influence from Russia and China. 

Trump has previously suggested that the US “needs to have ownership” of Greenland and has not ruled out various means to achieve that goal, prompting alarm in Copenhagen and among European allies. 

Denmark and Greenland are preparing for diplomatic discussions in Washington with US Vice President J.D. Vance and Secretary of State Marco Rubio aimed at addressing the escalating dispute. 

Despite the pressure, both Greenlandic and Danish officials have reaffirmed their commitment to sovereignty, NATO ties and cooperation with the EU, resisting any suggestion that Greenland’s status should change without the full consent of its people. 

European leaders have also backed Denmark’s stance, asserting that decisions about Greenland must respect international law and the island’s self-determination. 

This diplomatic standoff underscores rising geopolitical competition in the Arctic, driven by Greenland’s strategic location and natural resources.