Greenland’s foreign minister calls recent days “tough” ahead of tense White House talks

Greenland’s Foreign Minister Vivian Motzfeldt stated that the days leading up to a high-stakes White House meeting were “tough” and filled with mounting pressure as the Arctic territory prepared for talks with US officials. In an interview with broadcaster KNR, Motzfeldt said Greenland had coordinated closely with Denmark and was braced “for everything” ahead of the meeting with US Vice President JD Vance and Secretary of State Marco Rubio.

Unchanged US Position on Acquisition

The talks, which also included Danish Foreign Minister Lars Løkke Rasmussen, concluded without bridging the core divide. Rasmussen acknowledged afterward that a “fundamental disagreement” persists, noting that “frank” discussions did not alter the US stance. He emphasized that any proposal disrespecting Danish sovereignty and Greenlanders’ right to self-determination is “totally unacceptable.” The meeting followed repeated statements by President Donald Trump that the US must “acquire” Greenland for national security reasons, a position he reaffirmed afterward, suggesting Denmark could not prevent a Russian or Chinese takeover.

Greenland’s Stance and Strategy

Motzfeldt stressed that Greenland’s position was communicated clearly during the talks, and openness to cooperation was expressed with the hope of reaching a mutually acceptable arrangement. The encounter reflects the delicate diplomatic challenge faced by Nuuk and Copenhagen: maintaining a firm defense of sovereignty while managing relations with a powerful ally whose leader continues to pursue territorial ambitions. Both Denmark and Greenland have consistently rejected the idea of any transfer of sovereignty.

Broader Implications for Arctic Security

The unresolved tension underscores how Greenland has become a focal point in geopolitical competition, valued for its strategic location and mineral resources. The US push has spurred not only Danish and Greenlandic resistance but also broader European mobilization, including France’s decision to open a consulate in Nuuk and discussions of a strengthened NATO presence. The situation illustrates how great-power rivalry is testing transatlantic alliances and reshaping diplomatic engagements in the Arctic region.