The United States signalled it would not retreat from President Donald Trump’s goal of acquiring Greenland, as Washington’s stance continued to unsettle European allies and raise concerns within NATO. U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio said he would meet Danish leaders next week but made clear that all options, including military means, remain on the table.
Rubio stressed that diplomacy remained the preferred approach, noting that the administration would seek to resolve the issue through negotiations.
However, he confirmed that Trump retained the authority to pursue other measures if deemed necessary. White House press secretary Karoline Leavitt echoed this position, saying discussions over Greenland were ongoing within the administration, with diplomacy described as Trump’s first option.
European leaders have reacted with alarm, warning that any U.S. attempt to seize Greenland would constitute a serious breach of international law and threaten the unity of the alliance. France, Germany, Poland and other European states have begun coordinating a response, while senior officials said Denmark must lead efforts to define what support it seeks from partners.
French Foreign Minister Jean-Noel Barrot said European countries aimed to act together, while a German government source confirmed close coordination with Denmark and other allies. Canada and several Nordic countries also voiced support for Greenland, stressing that the Arctic island belongs to its people.
The issue is expected to feature at upcoming NATO discussions, with officials warning that unilateral action by Washington could undermine jointly agreed security principles. European leaders emphasised that political solidarity and respect for state sovereignty were crucial to maintaining Western unity.
Trump has repeatedly argued that Greenland is vital to U.S. national security, citing its strategic location and mineral resources, and accusing Denmark of failing to protect the territory adequately. Danish and Greenlandic officials have firmly rejected these claims, insisting Greenland is not for sale and condemning any suggestion of military intervention.
Greenland’s leaders have reiterated their opposition to annexation, calling U.S. rhetoric deeply troubling. Denmark has also disputed claims of increased Russian and Chinese activity near the island, saying such assertions are unsupported by evidence.
