WASHINGTON: US President Donald Trump on Wednesday reiterated that Greenland is crucial to American national security and suggested Denmark cannot be relied upon to safeguard the Arctic territory. His remarks came after a high-level meeting with Danish and Greenlandic officials at the White House, highlighting persistent differences over the island’s political future.
Read More: US control of Greenland ‘vital’, Trump insists
Trump argued that the United States is better positioned than Denmark to prevent Russian or Chinese influence in Greenland, even hinting that “something will work out” regarding its governance. The meeting included Secretary of State Marco Rubio, Vice President JD Vance, Danish Foreign Minister Lars Lokke Rasmussen, and Greenlandic Foreign Minister Vivian Motzfeldt.
NEW!! Trump renews his push for the U.S. to acquire Greenland, citing ‘national security’ as Arctic tensions rise
POTUS’ social media salvo comes ahead of high-level White House talks with Danish and Greenlandic foreign ministers this afternoon pic.twitter.com/d3szbPXzEC
— Alex Raufoglu (@ralakbar) January 14, 2026
Denmark and Greenland firmly rejected the notion that the island could be sold or acquired by the US. Rasmussen described the American position as a “wish of conquering Greenland,” while Motzfeldt emphasised that the territory remains part of the Kingdom of Denmark and that threats of force are reckless.
In response to heightened tensions, Greenland and Denmark have increased military presence on the island in cooperation with NATO allies. Danish forces, along with personnel from Germany, Sweden, and Norway, will participate in exercises throughout 2026 to strengthen Arctic defense.
While Trump’s focus has been on Arctic security, analysts noted that Greenlandic and Danish officials sought to de-escalate the crisis diplomatically. Greenlandic leaders have shifted public messaging to underscore unity with Denmark, prioritising self-determination within the kingdom.
Read More: Trump says US will take Greenland ‘one way or the other’
Public opinion in the United States remains largely opposed to Trump’s ambitions. A Reuters/Ipsos poll found only 17 percent support for acquiring Greenland, with 47 percent disapproving and 35 percent uncertain.