Greenland’s Prime Minister Jens-Frederik Nielsen has urged NATO allies to stand united in defending international law after U.S. President Donald Trump renewed his controversial comments about the Arctic island. Trump criticized the alliance for not supporting his war on Iran, tweeting that NATO “would not be there if we need them again” and dismissively referring to Greenland as a “big, poorly run, piece of ice.”
Speaking to Reuters, Nielsen rejected the characterization, emphasizing that Greenland is home to a proud population of 57,000 who contribute as “good global citizens” while respecting their allies. He stressed the importance of maintaining the post-war geopolitical order, including the NATO defense alliance and widely respected international law, which he said are now being challenged. Nielsen called on all allies to stand together to preserve these principles.
The tensions come amid ongoing diplomatic talks following Trump’s revived push earlier this year to seize Greenland from Denmark, a fellow NATO member. In January, the White House indicated Trump was considering military action, prompting Germany, France, and other European nations to send troops to the island in a show of solidarity. Negotiations with NATO Secretary-General Mark Rutte later moved the issue to a diplomatic track, though Nielsen indicated that U.S. ambitions to expand influence or control over Greenland remain unresolved.
Nielsen also noted the strategic context of Greenland, highlighting existing U.S. military presence under a 1951 treaty and the island’s role in Arctic security amid perceived threats from Russia and China. While discussions continue between Denmark, Greenland, and the United States, Nielsen made clear that he does not believe Trump has abandoned his desire to assert control over the island, leaving the region’s security and sovereignty under close international scrutiny.
