A bipartisan group of U.S. lawmakers visited Denmark to express support amid increasing pressure from President Donald Trump for the U.S. to annex Greenland, a semi-autonomous region of Denmark in the Arctic. The 11-member delegation, led by Senator Chris Coons, met with Danish members of parliament, Prime Minister Mette Frederiksen, and Greenlandic Prime Minister Jens-Frederik Nielsen.

Senator Coons stated the purpose of the trip was to listen to the views of the local population and bring those perspectives back to Washington "to lower the temperature" regarding the situation. Trump has asserted Greenland's importance to U.S. security, suggesting the U.S. could acquire it "the easy way" or "the hard way," alluding to the possibility of either purchasing the island or seizing it by force.

Both Denmark and Greenland have voiced opposition to a U.S. takeover. Most Greenlanders are reportedly against Trump's bid to buy the island or seize it by force.

Greenland, though sparsely populated, is rich in resources and strategically located between North America and the Arctic. This location makes it valuable for early warning systems in the event of missile attacks and for monitoring vessels in the region. The U.S. already maintains a military presence in Greenland, with more than one military base.

The U.S. interest in Greenland dates back decades. Discussions about purchasing the island have occurred periodically throughout history. The recent renewed interest from the Trump administration has sparked controversy and drawn attention to the geopolitical importance of the Arctic region. The congressional delegation's visit underscores the complex diplomatic considerations involved and the desire to find a resolution that respects the wishes of both Denmark and Greenland.