Greenland Begins Preparations Amid Potential U.S. Conflict, Citizens Advised to Stock Food

Nuuk/Copenhagen: Greenland, the world’s largest island located between the North Atlantic and Arctic Oceans, is geographically part of North America but politically controlled by Denmark, which has strong support from European allies. Around 80% of Greenland is covered by ice.

Amid rising tensions, Greenland’s Prime Minister Jens-Frederik Nielsen has warned that the possibility of a U.S. military strike cannot be ruled out. Speaking at a press conference in the capital Nuuk on Tuesday, he stated, “While the likelihood of armed conflict is low, it cannot be entirely dismissed. Citizens and authorities must begin preparing for potential military scenarios.”

According to a report by the Financial Review, the Greenlandic government is setting up a task force comprising local officials to assist citizens in managing daily life disruptions. The government is also drafting new guidelines advising residents to stock enough food to last five days.

Limited Military Capacity
Greenland’s military is not equipped to counter U.S. forces independently. Without support from powerful European nations, the Greenlandic army could resist only briefly. During a session in the European Parliament, Danish MEP Anders Vistisen strongly rejected former President Donald Trump’s recent comments advocating U.S. control over Greenland for national security reasons, stating bluntly, “Mr. President, back off.”

Trump has repeatedly argued that Greenland is vital to U.S. national security due to threats from China and Russia, advocating increased American control over the Arctic territory. He has also imposed a 10% tariff on countries opposing U.S. claims, including France and the UK, effective February 1, with plans to raise it to 25% from June if they do not comply.

Greenland’s Finance Minister, Mute B. Egede, noted that the country is under significant pressure and must be prepared for all scenarios. Similarly, Denmark’s Prime Minister Mette Frederiksen warned that the European Union might respond decisively if tariffs are imposed, potentially affecting both sides of the Atlantic.