Concerns Over U.S. Rhetoric
Greenlandic Prime Minister Jens-Frederik Nielsen said many residents of the semi-autonomous Danish territory feel unsettled by repeated calls from President Donald Trump to bring Greenland under U.S. control.
In an interview, Nielsen described the rhetoric as “an unacceptable pressure” placed on Greenlanders by the world’s most powerful nation. “A lot of people don’t feel safe,” he said, adding that initial fear has, for many, shifted toward anger.
Push for Control and Military Expansion
Since returning to office, Trump has argued that acquiring Greenland would strengthen U.S. and allied security, framing the island as strategically important in countering Russia and China. Although he later said military intervention was not under consideration, he has continued advocating for expanded U.S. influence and a broader military presence.
The United States already operates under a 1951 defense agreement with Denmark, which allows for military bases on Greenland. Last month, Gen. Gregory Guillot, head of U.S. Northern Command, told the Senate that the Pentagon is seeking an expanded footprint on the island.
Nielsen said Greenlanders are not naive about Washington’s intentions. “We know there is some sort of desire to own or to control Greenland,” he said. “Even though invasion has been taken off the table, the desire has not.”
Impact on Daily Life
According to Nielsen, anxiety intensified during peak tensions. Some families hesitated to send children to kindergarten, and social gatherings were canceled. The government urged residents to prepare emergency supplies, including food, water and warm clothing sufficient for five days, in case infrastructure were disrupted.
Asked whether Greenland feared becoming the next target of U.S. military action abroad, Nielsen responded, “Of course. A lot of Greenlandic people thought that way: We might be next.”
Red Lines and NATO Questions
Nielsen emphasized that Greenland will not relinquish territory. “We will not give away parts of our country or the whole country,” he said. “That’s ours.”
He added that Greenland remains open to deeper cooperation with the United States, provided it is built on mutual respect and without threats. Discussions continue through a high-level working group involving Greenland, Denmark and the U.S., but Nielsen said no new agreement has been reached beyond the existing 1951 pact.
Trump’s comments have also fueled debate within NATO, of which Denmark is a member. Nielsen declined to speculate on whether the alliance would provide assurances in the event of a dispute involving another ally, stating, “Look, we are all allies still.