Greenland's Prime Minister Jens-Frederik Nielsen stated that Greenlanders would choose Denmark over the United States if asked to decide between the two countries. Nielsen made the remark during a joint news conference with Denmark's Prime Minister Mette Frederiksen, in response to renewed interest from the U.S. in acquiring the semi-autonomous Danish territory.
Nielsen's statement represents the strongest position taken by a Greenlandic official since U.S. President Donald Trump reiterated his desire for the U.S. to annex Greenland. Trump has cited strategic reasons for the acquisition, arguing that U.S. ownership of Greenland is necessary for defense against Russia and China. The White House has floated the possibility of purchasing the island but has not explicitly ruled out the use of force.
Denmark, a fellow NATO member, has firmly rejected the notion of Greenland being annexed by the U.S. Prime Minister Frederiksen has warned that the use of military force would jeopardize the transatlantic defense alliance.
Greenland's strategic location between North America and the Arctic makes it valuable for early warning systems related to missile attacks and for monitoring maritime activity in the region. Despite being sparsely populated, its geographical position has made it a focal point of geopolitical interest.
The renewed U.S. interest in Greenland follows previous attempts by the U.S. to purchase the island, dating back to the 19th century. The Trump administration's approach, however, has been met with resistance from both Greenland and Denmark. European allies have largely supported Denmark's stance against increased pressure from the U.S.
The situation remains sensitive, with Denmark asserting its sovereignty over Greenland while the U.S. continues to express its strategic interest in the territory. The Danish government maintains that any decisions regarding Greenland's future must be made by the Greenlandic people.
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