The White House has confirmed that US President Donald Trump is considering “a range of options” to acquire Greenland, including the potential use of military force. The announcement comes amid growing tensions with European allies over the status of the semi-autonomous Arctic territory, which is part of the Kingdom of Denmark and a NATO member.

A White House statement described Greenland as a “national security priority” for the United States. Officials emphasized that while military intervention is an option available to the Commander-in-Chief, other possibilities, such as a purchase or a Compact of Free Association, are also under discussion.

European Leaders Rally Behind Denmark

Hours after the announcement, leaders from the UK, France, Germany, Italy, Poland, Spain, and Denmark issued a joint statement supporting Denmark’s sovereignty over Greenland.

“Greenland belongs to its people, and only Denmark and Greenland can decide on matters concerning their relations,” the statement read.
“Arctic security must be achieved collectively by NATO allies, including the US, while upholding the UN Charter’s principles of sovereignty, territorial integrity, and inviolability of borders.”

Greenlandic Prime Minister Jens-Frederik Nielsen welcomed the statement, calling for “respectful dialogue” and noting the importance of international law in any discussions about Greenland’s future.

Domestic Reaction in Greenland

Greenland, home to 57,000 people, has enjoyed extensive self-government since 1979, although Denmark retains control over defense and foreign policy. Public opinion polls show overwhelming opposition among Greenlanders to becoming part of the United States.

Morgan Angaju, a 27-year-old Inuit from Ilulissat, described the situation as “terrifying”:

“We are already claimed by the Greenlandic people. Kalaallit Nunaat means the land of the Greenlandic people. Listening to the leader of the free world talk about us like we’re something to claim is deeply worrying.”

Around 1,000 Greenlanders previously protested against US proposals in March 2025, holding signs reading “Kalaallit don’t want to be annexed”.

Strategic Interests and Arctic Security

Officials in Washington have highlighted Greenland’s strategic importance, citing its location in the Arctic, untapped rare earth minerals, and potential new trade routes as melting ice opens previously inaccessible areas.

Senator Eric Schmitt (R-Missouri) stressed the national security perspective, noting that a strong US presence in Greenland would benefit Western defense strategy. Similarly, US Secretary of State Marco Rubio clarified that the Trump administration has no immediate plans to invade Greenland, but reiterated interest in acquiring the territory through diplomatic or financial means.

Background

Trump first floated the idea of acquiring Greenland during his first presidential term, framing it as a “large real estate deal”. Analysts have warned that growing interest from Russia and China in Greenland’s resources adds urgency to the US strategy.

During a congressional hearing last summer, Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth confirmed that the Pentagon maintains contingency plans for all scenarios, emphasizing the strategic importance of the Arctic island.