US President Donald Trump has dismissed remarks by Greenland&rsquo;s Prime Minister expressing a preference to remain part of Denmark, warning that such a position could create serious problems. The comments come amid renewed assertions by Trump about the United States&rsquo; strategic interest in the Arctic island.
Greenland Prime Minister Jens-Frederik Nielsen recently stated that the self-governed Danish territory would choose Denmark over the United States if forced to decide. Speaking alongside Danish Prime Minister Mette Frederiksen in Copenhagen, Nielsen said Greenland does not support any move to come under US control and intends to remain within the Danish realm.
Reacting to the statement, Trump said he disagreed with Greenland&rsquo;s leadership and downplayed familiarity with the Prime Minister. He suggested that opposing the US position could have consequences, indicating the issue could escalate further.
Greenland&rsquo;s coalition government has reiterated that it cannot accept any proposal for a US takeover under any circumstances. It also underlined that as part of the Danish commonwealth, Greenland falls under NATO&rsquo;s collective defence framework, and any security concerns should be addressed through the alliance.
The issue is expected to feature in high-level diplomatic discussions, with US Vice President JD Vance and Secretary of State Marco Rubio scheduled to meet the foreign ministers of Denmark and Greenland at the White House.
Greenland, the world&rsquo;s largest island, is a self-governing territory within Denmark and holds significant geopolitical importance due to its location and natural resources. Both Danish and Greenlandic leaders have repeatedly stressed that the island is not for sale and that its future must be determined solely by its people.
Trump has previously warned that if the United States does not assert its influence over Greenland, rival powers such as Russia and China could step in. He has claimed that Washington may be forced to act to prevent strategic adversaries from gaining a foothold in the Arctic region.

US President rejects Greenland PM’s remarks, hints at trouble amid takeover push

Trump warns Greenland leader over Denmark stance

US President rejects Greenland PM’s remarks, hints at trouble amid takeover push

January 14, 2026 | 14:17 IST