“Military Conflict Can’t Be Ruled Out,” Says Greenland PM as Trump Revives Takeover Claims

Greenland's leadership has issued a rare public warning, asking residents to stay alert and prepared as international tensions rise over the strategically crucial Arctic territory.

The remarks come amid repeated statements by former US President Donald Trump about taking control of Greenland, triggering concern in both Nuuk and Copenhagen.

PM flags security risks amid global tensions

Greenland Prime Minister Jens-Frederik Nielsen said authorities and citizens should be ready for the unlikely but serious possibility of a military escalation. Speaking at a press conference in Nuuk, he stressed that while conflict was not expected, it could not be completely dismissed.

"It's not likely there will be a military conflict, but it can't be ruled out," Jens-Frederik Nielsen said.

He added that the current international environment required Greenland to take precautionary steps, especially given its strategic position in the Arctic and growing global interest in the region.

Task force and public preparedness measures planned

To prepare for potential disruptions, the Greenlandic government plans to form a task force involving key local authorities. The goal is to ensure continuity of daily life if tensions escalate.

Nielsen said new public guidelines would soon be issued. These are expected to include advice for households to keep emergency supplies, such as enough food to last at least five days, according to a Bloomberg report. Officials believe such measures are standard preparedness steps rather than signals of imminent danger.

Trump's Greenland remarks fuel unease

Concerns have intensified after Donald Trump once again said the United States needs to own Greenland for security reasons. In recent days, he also shared an AI-generated image showing himself planting a US flag on the island, a move that drew criticism and added to diplomatic unease.

Greenland, with a population of around 57,000, is part of the Kingdom of Denmark. While it manages most domestic affairs independently, defence and foreign policy remain under Danish control, placing Copenhagen at the centre of any security response.

Denmark, NATO step up Arctic security

Denmark has already increased its military presence in Greenland to strengthen Arctic defence. Finance Minister and former prime minister Mute B. Egede said the pressure on the territory was growing and preparedness was essential.

"Greenland is under a lot of pressure," Egede said, adding, "we need to be ready for all scenarios."

Last week, Denmark and seven other NATO members deployed a small group of officers to Greenland under Operation Arctic Endurance. Denmark's Joint Arctic Command is also considering expanding military exercises, potentially making them year-round.

At the same time, Trump has threatened to impose new tariffs from February 1 on the eight NATO allies involved, further straining relations between the United States and Europe and adding another layer of uncertainty to the Arctic security landscape.