Greenland has rebuffed US President Donald Trump's renewed push to annex the strategically vital Arctic island, opting firmly for its union with Denmark.
Prime Minister Jens-Frederik Nielsen made the declaration Tuesday in Copenhagen alongside Danish Prime Minister Mette Frederiksen, stressing unity in the face of Trump's economic and military threats. "We choose Denmark. We choose the Greenland we know today, which is part of the Kingdom of Denmark," Nielsen stated at the joint press event. The remarks precede critical Wednesday meetings in Washington between Danish-Greenlandic foreign ministers and US officials Marco Rubio and JD Vance, aimed at easing tensions over the 57,000-resident territory. Trump, undeterred, quipped about Nielsen: "I don't know who he is... that's going to be a big problem for him." Nielsen called the US stance "very serious" and out of line, pausing autonomy talks for now. Europe's leaders, including Germany, mull military presence to bolster Arctic defenses against Russia and China, highlighting NATO strains.
Nielsen Draws Firm Line
Jens-Frederik Nielsen framed the choice as survival amid crisis. He urged standing together within Denmark's fold right now. Independence whispers fade against immediate threats. Danish PM Mette Frederiksen nodded support at the podium. She echoed sovereignty as non-negotiable for the Kingdom. Joint resolve signals deeper alliance.
Meanwhile, Trump's retort landed during a White House query. He shrugged off Nielsen's profile with casual dismissal. Such barbs fuel the diplomatic fire.
Europe Rallies for Arctic Security
Germany's Foreign Minister Johann Wadephul met Rubio Monday, eyeing compromise paths. He stressed multilateral North Atlantic security above all. Talks aim to cool annexation heat.
Defense Minister Boris Pistorius pushed joint responsibility under law. UK and German talks explore Greenland troop presence. Europe signals backbone on Arctic claims. Nielsen clarified no abandonment of independence dreams. Timing demands caution and unity first.
White House eyes Greenland for strategic edge. Russia and China loom large in Arctic plays. NATO bases already dot the landscape there.
