WASHINGTON: Greenland’s political parties have issued a rare joint statement rejecting remarks by US President Donald Trump after he again suggested the possible use of force to take control of the Danish autonomous territory, raising alarm in Europe and drawing strong reactions from Copenhagen.
Leaders of all five parties represented in Greenland’s parliament said the island’s future must be decided solely by its people, stressing that they opposed governance imposed by either Washington or Denmark and rejected any form of external pressure.
Trump said the United States would “do something on Greenland, whether they like it or not,” arguing that control of the Arctic territory was essential for US national security amid what he described as increased Russian and Chinese activity in the region.
Denmark and its European allies reacted with concern, as Trump declined to rule out military action while reviving his earlier proposal to purchase Greenland — an idea that was firmly rejected during his previous presidency.
Greenland, a former Danish colony that gained home rule in 1979, has been gradually moving towards greater autonomy, with political opinion divided over the pace of independence. While the ruling coalition favours a cautious approach, the opposition Naleraq party has called for faster separation from Denmark.
A poll conducted by Danish news agency Ritzau showed that more than 38 per cent of respondents believed the United States could potentially attempt to invade Greenland under Trump’s leadership. Danish Prime Minister Mette Frederiksen has warned that such rhetoric could undermine NATO unity.
Trump later attempted to moderate his remarks toward Denmark, dismissing historical claims to Greenland while US Secretary of State Marco Rubio prepared to engage with Danish and Greenlandic officials.
The developments come as the Trump administration adopts a more assertive foreign policy stance in other regions. In Venezuela, Trump has promoted US access to the country’s oil reserves following the capture of President Nicolas Maduro by US forces, telling American energy executives that Washington would oversee investment decisions.
US officials have claimed that up to $100 billion could be invested in Venezuela’s energy sector, though major companies have expressed caution, citing political instability and deteriorating infrastructure.
The administration has also adjusted its approach in Latin America, with Trump announcing an upcoming visit by Colombian President Gustavo Petro, signalling a thaw in previously strained relations. In Bolivia, US drug enforcement agencies have resumed operations for the first time since 2008, while Washington has increased pressure on Cuba amid worsening economic conditions on the island.