The statement comes as Trump renews his push to bring Greenland under US control, describing the Arctic island as critical to American national security. Speaking to US media, Trump has said Washington wants “full control” of Greenland, not a lease or limited agreement, citing growing Russian and Chinese activity in the Arctic.
According to Danish officials, the policy of immediate retaliation dates back to 1952 and was shaped by Denmark’s experience during World War II, when German forces invaded in 1940 and communication failures left troops without guidance. The Defence Ministry confirmed the rule remains in force today.
Greenland, a semi-autonomous territory with a population of about 57,000, has been linked to Denmark for nearly 300 years. While it governs most domestic matters, Denmark retains responsibility for defence and foreign policy. Greenlandic Prime Minister Jens-Fredrik Nielsen has repeatedly rejected US overtures, stating that the island is “not for sale.” A recent survey showed 85% of Greenlanders oppose any US occupation.
Tensions intensified after reports that the White House is considering offering Greenland residents between $10,000 and $100,000 (approximately ₹9 lakh to ₹90 lakh) per person to encourage a break from Denmark. Sources told Reuters the proposal, framed as a “business deal,” could cost up to $6 billion. US officials have said financial incentives are only one of several options under review, alongside diplomatic or strategic measures.
Denmark’s Prime Minister Mette Frederiksen warned that any attack on Greenland would effectively end NATO and undermine the post–Second World War security order. European leaders, including those of France, Germany, Britain and Italy, have issued a joint statement backing Denmark, stressing that Greenland’s future can only be decided by its people and Copenhagen.
Greenland itself has no standing army. Security is handled by Denmark’s Joint Arctic Command, supported by elite units such as the Sirius Dog Sled Patrol. The United States maintains a presence at the Pitufik Space Base in northwest Greenland, where around 150–200 US personnel operate missile warning and space surveillance systems.
Diplomatic efforts are ongoing to cool tensions. Danish and Greenlandic ambassadors have met US officials in Washington, and US Secretary of State Marco Rubio is expected to hold talks with Danish leaders next week. With the Arctic gaining strategic importance due to climate change, new shipping routes and competition over resources, analysts warn that the Greenland dispute risks becoming a major flashpoint between allies.
