Danish Foreign Minister Lars Løkke Rasmussen rebuked the Trump administration on Saturday for its harsh rhetoric toward Denmark and Greenland, after US Vice President JD Vance accused Denmark of neglecting Greenland’s security and President Donald Trump

In response to Rasmussen, Trump refused to rule out military force to acquire the Arctic territory, telling NBC News, “I never take military force off the table” with regards to acquiring Greenland.

Tensions rise over Greenland’s future

Greenland, a self-governing Danish territory, has become a focal point in US-Denmark tensions as Trump pushes to annex the strategically important and resource-rich island, citing national security concerns.

“We do not appreciate the tone in which it is being delivered. This is not how you speak to your close allies,” Rasmussen said in a video statement, responding to Vance’s criticism that Denmark has “underinvested” in Greenland’s security.

Greenland, home to 57,000 people—mostly Inuit—has been seeking greater autonomy from Denmark. However, while all Greenlandic political parties support eventual independence, none favor becoming part of the United States.  

Jens-Frederik Nielsen, Greenland’s newly appointed prime minister, accused the US of disrespecting Greenlandic sovereignty.

Greenland, Denmark push back

Denmark and Greenland alike, with backing from the European Union, have firmly rejected any US attempt to annex the island.

Greenlandic lawmakers and Danish leaders have rejected Trump’s overtures. Danish Prime Minister Mette Frederiksen defended her country’s Arctic defense efforts, calling Denmark “a good and strong ally.” Meanwhile, Greenland’s parliament formed a new coalition government, uniting against US pressure.

Hundreds protested outside the US Embassy in Copenhagen, holding signs reading, “Back off, USA.” Even Greenland’s national dogsled race saw political fallout, as Usha Vance, the vice president’s wife, canceled her attendance after her husband’s controversial military base visit.

Moreover, a similar demonstration took place in the city of Sisimiut in northern Greenland, while demonstrators gathered outside the US consulate in Greenland's capital, singing the Greenlandic anthem “Nunarput Utoqqarsuanngoravit,” a song reflecting national pride and identity.

The chairmen of all five political parties with representation in the Greenland parliament, Inatsisartut, stated their rejection of Trump’s repeated remarks on annexation as the leaders of Demokraatit, Naleraq, Inuit Ataqatigiit, Siumut, and Atassut emphasized in a joint statement that his behavior was “unacceptable".

Mutual investments

Rasmussen pointed to the 1951 US-Denmark defense agreement, which allows for an expanded American military presence in Greenland. He noted Denmark’s recent $2.1 billion investment in Arctic security, including new naval vessels and surveillance drones.

“If [the US] wishes a stronger military presence, let us discuss it,” Rasmussen said.

As tensions persist, Trump’s aggressive stance risks further alienating a key NATO ally, with Greenland firmly resisting any forced takeover.

Vance on Friday accused Denmark of failing to properly invest in Greenland during a visit to the strategically significant Arctic territory.

Speaking at the Pituffik Space Base in northwestern Greenland, Vance said Denmark had "under-invested in the people of Greenland and in the security architecture of this incredible, beautiful landmass."

His visit, viewed as provocative by both Copenhagen and Greenland’s capital, Nuuk, has escalated tensions over US ambitions in the Arctic.