NUUK: Residents and political leaders in Greenland’s capital, Nuuk, have voiced strong support for remaining part of Denmark, urging a pause in independence discussions as the United States ramps up interest in the Arctic territory.
The comments come ahead of high-level talks in Washington, where Greenlandic and Danish foreign ministers are set to meet US Vice President JD Vance and Secretary of State Marco Rubio on Wednesday, following renewed remarks by US President Donald Trump about taking control of Greenland.
Greenland Prime Minister Jens-Frederik Nielsen firmly rejected any notion of becoming a US territory, reaffirming loyalty to Denmark. “If we have to choose between the US and Denmark here and now, then we choose Denmark,” Nielsen said alongside Danish Prime Minister Mette Frederiksen in Copenhagen.
While Greenland has steadily expanded self-rule since 1979, leaders and residents signalled that full independence is a long-term goal, not an immediate priority. Many stressed the importance of remaining under Denmark’s governance and NATO’s security umbrella amid rising geopolitical tensions.
Residents in Nuuk expressed concern over potential US intervention. Some said recent threats have strengthened national unity and reinforced opposition to any form of annexation. “For others this may be territory, but for us, it’s home,” said cabinet minister Naaja Nathanielsen, adding that Greenlanders see themselves as allies of the US, not Americans.
Trump’s administration has repeatedly highlighted Greenland’s strategic importance to US national security. Media reports suggest Washington has explored multiple scenarios, including military options and financial incentives, to bring the island under US control.
Denmark and Greenland have sought diplomatic engagement to address the issue. Danish Foreign Minister Lars Lokke Rasmussen said the goal of the Washington meeting is to resolve tensions through dialogue, while Denmark prepares to strengthen Arctic defences and deepen NATO coordination.
Prime Minister Frederiksen acknowledged the challenge ahead, noting that standing up to the US — Denmark’s closest ally — would not be easy, adding that “the hardest part may still be ahead.”