Greenland's Prime Minister Jens-Frederik Nielsen stated that his people would choose Denmark over the United States if asked to decide between the two nations. Nielsen made the remark during a joint news conference with Denmark's Prime Minister Mette Frederiksen, marking the strongest statement from a representative of the semi-autonomous Danish territory since renewed interest from the U.S. in acquiring the island.

Nielsen's comments came in response to ongoing speculation regarding potential U.S. annexation of Greenland. President Donald Trump has repeatedly voiced his belief that the U.S. should "own" Greenland, citing strategic importance in defending against Russia and China. The White House has floated the idea of purchasing the island, while not explicitly ruling out the possibility of annexation through force.

Denmark, a fellow NATO member, has firmly opposed the notion of forced annexation. Prime Minister Frederiksen previously warned that military intervention would jeopardize the transatlantic defense alliance.

Trump responded to Nielsen's statement on Tuesday, saying, "That's their problem, I disagree with him... That's going to be a big problem for him."

Greenland's strategic location between North America and the Arctic makes it valuable for early warning systems, despite being sparsely populated. European allies have largely supported Denmark in resisting increased pressure from the U.S. regarding the island's future. The situation remains a point of contention between the U.S. and Denmark, with the future of Greenland's relationship with both nations uncertain.