Denmark has raised objections to the US interest in Greenland, citing a “fundamental disagreement” after high-level talks at the White House. Danish Foreign Minister Lars Løkke Rasmussen described the discussions with US Vice-President JD Vance and Secretary of State Marco Rubio as “frank but constructive,” but emphasized that President Trump’s insistence on “conquering” Greenland is “totally unacceptable.”
The hour-long meeting did not produce a major breakthrough, though all sides agreed to form a high-level working group to discuss Greenland’s future. Rasmussen stressed that Denmark and Greenland have “red lines” the US cannot cross, while remaining open to expanded US military cooperation on the island. Greenland’s Foreign Minister Vivian Motzfeldt echoed this stance, affirming that the territory opposes a takeover but is willing to consider closer collaboration.
Trump reiterated his belief that Greenland is critical for US national security, citing its strategic location between North America and the Arctic. The US already maintains more than 100 personnel at the Pituffik base in northwestern Greenland and has the right under current agreements to bring additional troops. Trump argued that the US cannot rely on Denmark alone to defend the island.
The discussions coincided with NATO allies signaling support for Greenland. Sweden committed to sending armed forces at Denmark’s request, Germany plans a reconnaissance team, and the UK will send a military officer. France announced it will open a consulate and deploy military elements to the territory. Denmark affirmed that its military expansion in Greenland will proceed “in close cooperation with allies,” noting rising geopolitical tensions in the Arctic.
While Trump has not ruled out military action, other options include purchasing Greenland, although neither Denmark nor Greenland has indicated that the island is for sale. Public opinion shows strong resistance to US control: a January 2025 poll reported that only 6% of Greenlanders favored becoming part of the US, with 85% opposed. A recent Reuters/Ipsos poll showed just 17% of Americans support seizing the island.
Trump has linked Greenland to his planned Golden Dome missile defense system and has called on NATO to support US efforts. The latest talks come amid broader US military actions, including operations in Venezuela and Syria, and ongoing threats regarding Iran’s crackdown on protesters.