U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio announced on Wednesday that he is scheduled to hold discussions with Denmark next week, following U.S. President Donald Trump’s recent expressions of interest in acquiring Greenland. Rubio emphasized that diplomatic solutions are preferred over military actions when addressing national security threats, such as the situation in Venezuela.
While Rubio did not disclose the specific officials he will be meeting, Denmark’s Foreign Minister Lars Lokke Rasmussen and Greenland’s counterpart, Vivian Motzfeldt, have requested an urgent meeting with Rubio to engage in constructive dialogue. The prospect of a potential U.S. military takeover of Greenland from Denmark has raised concerns within the NATO alliance and highlighted the discord between Trump and European leaders.
White House Press Secretary Karoline Leavitt stated that Trump and his advisors are exploring various options regarding Greenland, including the utilization of military force if deemed necessary. Additionally, White House advisor Stephen Miller and some Republican lawmakers have challenged Denmark’s territorial claim over Greenland.
Republican House Speaker Mike Johnson downplayed the notion of military intervention, asserting that such actions are not being seriously considered. Johnson emphasized the importance of diplomacy and clarified his stance in response to questions regarding Leavitt’s previous remarks.
European governments are strategizing on potential responses if the U.S. proceeds with its threat to acquire Greenland, as voiced by French Foreign Minister Jean-Noel Barrot during discussions with counterparts from Germany and Poland. Leaders from major European nations and Canada have voiced support for Greenland, affirming that the island belongs to its inhabitants.
Trump’s repeated interest in gaining control of Greenland, citing its strategic significance for U.S. military operations, has caused uncertainty and raised eyebrows. A longstanding agreement between the U.S. and Denmark allows the former to establish military installations in Greenland with Denmark’s consent.
Leavitt emphasized that Trump is not the first president to express interest in Greenland, despite consistent assertions from Greenland and Denmark that the island is not for sale. Greenland’s geopolitical positioning, mineral resources, and role in U.S. defense strategy have fueled discussions on its importance.
Concerns raised by Trump about Russian and Chinese activities near Greenland have been refuted by Danish officials, who noted no evidence of such presence based on vessel tracking data. The situation surrounding Greenland continues to evolve, with global stakeholders closely monitoring developments.