U.S. Interest in Greenland Raises Concerns Among Local Officials
Jan, 13 2026
Nathanielsen's comments came ahead of a meeting in Washington involving U.S. officials and foreign ministers from Denmark and Greenland, amid rising tensions between the allies. She noted that the people of Greenland are 'very, very worried' about the implications of U.S. control.
In a related context, a Danish government official confirmed that Denmark had recently supported U.S. forces in the interception of an oil tanker in the Atlantic, which was allegedly violating U.S. sanctions. This operation is part of a broader U.S. strategy to enforce a blockade in the Caribbean Sea aimed at vessels linked to Venezuela.
U.S. Vice President JD Vance and Secretary of State Marco Rubio are scheduled to meet with Danish Foreign Minister Lars Løkke Rasmussen and Greenlandic Foreign Minister Vivian Motzfeldt to discuss the U.S. interest in Greenland. Danish Prime Minister Mette Frederiksen has reiterated that Greenland is not for sale and emphasized Denmark's commitment to Arctic security.
Greenlandic Prime Minister Jens-Frederik Nielsen has also stated that the territory does not wish to be governed by the U.S. Nathanielsen expressed feelings of betrayal and bewilderment regarding the U.S. rhetoric, asserting that Greenlanders desire collaboration rather than control.
NATO Secretary-General Mark Rutte has refrained from commenting on the dispute, emphasizing the alliance's focus on security in the Arctic region. Tensions have escalated as the Trump administration has suggested military options for acquiring Greenland, with Trump asserting the necessity of U.S. control to counter potential Russian or Chinese influence.
Nathanielsen acknowledged the geopolitical realities but insisted that any changes should not involve the use of force. She emphasized the importance of local agency, stating that the people of Greenland should have a say in their future, as the territory represents their home, not merely a strategic asset.