The United States has suggested that military action could be used to acquire Greenland, reigniting tensions with Europe. Leaders across the continent have firmly stated that Greenland “belongs to its people” and rejected any U.S. threats.

The White House said President Donald Trump views acquiring Greenland, part of Denmark, as essential to “deter our adversaries in the Arctic region.”

“The president and his team are discussing a range of options to pursue this important foreign policy goal, and of course, utilizing the US military is always an option at the commander-in-chief’s disposal,” the statement added.

Observers note that such a move could create major diplomatic friction with NATO allies and deepen the rift between the U.S. and Europe.

Greenland, the world’s largest island with a population of just 57,000, holds significant strategic value. Its location between Europe and North America is key for U.S. ballistic missile defense systems, and its mineral resources could help reduce reliance on Chinese exports.

Trump has argued that the island is “covered with Russian and Chinese ships” and that Denmark cannot adequately protect it, claims denied by Danish officials.

Europe and Canada respond

European leaders—including France, Germany, Italy, Poland, Spain, and the U.K.—joined Danish Prime Minister Mette Frederiksen in a statement reaffirming that Greenland “belongs to its people.”

“It is for Denmark and Greenland, and them only, to decide on matters concerning Denmark and Greenland,” they said.

Canadian Prime Minister Mark Carney also voiced support, noting that Governor General Mary Simon and Foreign Minister Anita Anand will visit Greenland next month to strengthen ties.

Nordic foreign ministers from Finland, Iceland, Norway, Sweden, and Denmark emphasized Greenland’s right to self-determination while pledging increased Arctic security collaboration. Polish Prime Minister Donald Tusk warned that threats against NATO members undermine the alliance’s credibility.

Greenland Prime Minister Jens-Frederik Nielsen welcomed European solidarity and called for “respectful dialogue” with the U.S.

Denmark rejected Trump’s claims about Chinese influence in Greenland. Foreign Minister Lars Lokke Rasmussen said, “We do not share this image that Greenland is plastered with Chinese investments… nor that there are Chinese warships up and down along Greenland.”

The Greenlandic government requested an urgent meeting with U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio and Denmark’s Rasmussen to address the situation.

Meanwhile, Louisiana Governor Jeff Landry, appointed U.S. special envoy to Greenland, said he intends to speak directly with Greenland residents rather than Danish or European officials. He told Fox News, “I want to talk to people who want an opportunity to improve the quality of life in Greenland.”