Any US Move on Greenland Would End NATO, Warns Danish PM After Trump’s Threats

Denmark has issued a sharp warning to the United States following renewed remarks by former US President Donald Trump suggesting American control over Greenland, calling such a move a direct threat to the very existence of NATO.

Danish Prime Minister Mette Frederiksen said that any attempt by the US to seize or forcibly control Greenland would effectively dismantle the NATO military alliance, as it would amount to one member state attacking another.

“If the United States were to use force against Greenland, it would mean the end of NATO,” Frederiksen said. “An attack by one NATO country on another would destroy the security framework established after World War II. Such threats cannot and will not be accepted.”

Trump’s Remarks Spark Diplomatic Tension

Trump has repeatedly described Greenland as strategically vital due to its location between Europe and North America, arguing that American control of the Arctic island would provide Washington with a major geopolitical advantage. His recent comments, including a cryptic reference to “something happening within 20 days,” have reignited fears of possible US intervention.

The remarks have angered political leadership in both Denmark and Greenland, which together with the US are all NATO members.

Greenland Leadership Pushes Back

Greenland’s Prime Minister Jens-Frederik Nielsen also strongly criticized Trump’s statements, warning of severe consequences if any attempt is made to undermine Greenland’s autonomy.

“Any effort to take control of Greenland would have disastrous outcomes,” Nielsen said. “Greenland is not Venezuela. This is not a place where someone can simply arrive and take over overnight. We seek cooperation, not coercion.”

Why Greenland Matters

Greenland, home to around 57,000 people, has enjoyed self-rule since 1979, with its own elected government. However, defence and foreign policy remain under Denmark’s authority. The island has long been the subject of geopolitical interest due to its Arctic position, emerging shipping routes, and proximity to Russia and North America.

While there have been periodic calls within Greenland for full independence from Denmark, public sentiment remains strongly opposed to any form of American control. Protests and political resistance against US influence have been visible in recent years.

NATO at a Crossroads

Analysts warn that escalating rhetoric over Greenland risks triggering a serious rift within NATO at a time of heightened global tensions. Denmark’s warning underscores growing unease in Europe over unilateral actions that could undermine collective security arrangements.

For now, Copenhagen has made its position clear: Greenland is not for sale, and any threat to its sovereignty threatens the future of NATO itself.