In brief
Stephen Miller, a senior adviser to Donald Trump, stated that Greenland should be integrated into the US to bolster NATO interests and security dynamics in the Arctic region. He asserted that no one would oppose US intentions regarding Greenland, prompting a robust response from Denmark and its allies. Diplomatic tensions have escalated as Miller questioned Denmark's claims over Greenland and emphasized the US's strategic need for the territory.
One of Donald Trump's most influential aides has said Greenland should become part of the US in order to protect NATO and the Arctic.
Asked in an interview with CNN to confirm the US would rule out the use of force to annex the semi-autonomous region of fellow NATO member Denmark, Stephen Miller said, nobody's going to fight the US over the future of Greenland.
On Sunday Trump reiterated his stance that the US needs Greenland, which led to a response from Danish Prime Minister Mette Frederiksen who stated that any US aggression would jeopardize NATO's integrity.
In a show of solidarity, six European allies issued a joint statement supporting Denmark.
Greenland belongs to its people, and only Denmark and Greenland can decide on matters concerning their relations, stated the leaders of the UK, France, Germany, Italy, Poland, Spain, and Denmark.
Miller declared it as the formal position of the US government that Greenland should be integrated into the US, questioning Denmark's claim over the island, labeling it a colony.
He emphasized the significance of Greenland for US security interests, especially in safeguarding NATO.
The discussion surfaced following recent US military actions in Venezuela, which have heightened concerns over potential US interventionist attitudes toward Greenland.
Miller's remarks have reignited fears that the US may consider forceful means to assert control over Greenland. Trump's insistence on acquiring the island stems from its strategic location and valuable resources.
Although Greenland enjoys substantial self-governance, its defense operations remain under Danish supervision, while polls indicate that most residents prefer either maintaining the current status or pursuing independence rather than joining the US.
