Greenland Prime Minister Jens-Frederik Nielsen responded to Donald Trump by saying that he cannot take control of the territory “because he wants it”. “In a situation where the American president has again stated that the United States takes Greenland very seriously, this support from our allies in NATO is very important and unequivocal,” he said after the joint note of support from some European leaders.
«Once again – says Nielsen – I urge the United States to seek a respectful dialogue through the correct diplomatic and political channels and using pre-existing forums based on agreements already in force with the United States. The dialogue must take place while respecting the fact that Greenland’s status is rooted in international law and the principle of territorial integrity.”
Danish Defense Minister Troels Lund Poulsen announced his country’s intention to «strengthen the military presence in Greenland. But we will also have a larger NATO presence, with more exercises.” This was reported by the national agency Ritzau. The minister then specified that Denmark, and therefore also Greenland, are members of the NATO defense alliance with the United States. «I would like to point out that Greenland is part of the Danish Commonwealth. I don’t see anyone at an international level questioning it,” he added.