'A big problem': Trump furious as Greenland 'chooses' Denmark over US

The Arctic territory’s Prime Minister, Jens-Frederik Nielsen, said Greenland would stand with Denmark if forced to choose, effectively shelving independence ambitions for now.

Speaking alongside Danish Prime Minister Mette Frederiksen in Copenhagen, Nielsen said the current geopolitical climate leaves Greenland with little room for ambiguity.

“We are in the middle of a serious geopolitical crisis,” Nielsen said. “If we must choose between the United States and Denmark, then we choose Denmark.

We choose the Greenland we know today as part of the Kingdom of Denmark.”

High-stakes talks loom in Washington

Nielsen’s remarks come just days before a crucial diplomatic meeting in Washington.

Danish and Greenlandic foreign ministers are scheduled to meet US Secretary of State Marco Rubio and Vice President JD Vance in an attempt to ease escalating tensions and repair strained relations.

The Greenlandic leader described the situation as “extremely serious,” calling Trump’s renewed threats to seize the island “completely unacceptable.”

Officials say the goal of the talks is to calm diplomatic waters and prevent further deterioration in relations over Greenland’s strategic location in the Arctic.

Trump issues sharp warning

President Trump reacted angrily to Nielsen’s statements, warning that Greenland’s stance could create major problems for its leadership.

“That’s their problem,” Trump told reporters. “I disagree with them. I don’t even know who he is, but that’s going to be a big problem for him.”

Trump has repeatedly suggested the US could acquire Greenland, either through economic pressure or military force, citing national security and strategic interests in the Arctic region.

Independence debate put on hold

Greenland, home to roughly 57,000 people, has long debated breaking away from Denmark.

However, public opinion has consistently rejected closer ties with the US.

Elections held in March last year reinforced that view.

According to reports, nearly three-quarters of voters supported parties favouring a slow and cautious approach toward independence rather than rapid separation from Denmark.

Asked whether Greenland is abandoning independence altogether, Nielsen said unity was now the priority.

“This is a time to stand together,” he said. “Greenland stands firmly within the Kingdom of Denmark and remains united in protecting fundamental principles.”

Europe steps in as tensions rise

European powers are also moving to counter Washington’s aggressive stance.

A group of countries led by Germany and the United Kingdom is reportedly considering a military presence in Greenland to signal Europe’s seriousness about Arctic security.

After meeting with Rubio, German Foreign Minister Johann Wadephul said he was hopeful of finding common ground with the US.

German Defence Minister Boris Pistorius stressed that Arctic security must be handled multilaterally.

“Security in the North Atlantic and the Arctic can only be achieved through cooperation,” he said. “All disputes should be resolved peacefully under international law.”

Strategic stakes in the Arctic

Greenland’s vast landmass and proximity to key Arctic routes make it strategically vital for global powers.

The island plays a major role in military surveillance, missile defence, and emerging shipping lanes created by melting ice.

Trump’s push to control Greenland has intensified concerns among NATO allies and raised questions about Washington’s commitment to international norms.

For now, Greenland’s leadership appears determined to resist US pressure, choosing stability with Denmark over uncertainty with Washington — a move that could reshape Arctic geopolitics in the months ahead.