European Forces Arrive in Nuuk Amid NATO Rotation Troops from France, Germany, the United Kingdom, Norway, Sweden and the Netherlands began landing in Nuuk this week, with additional units expected in the coming days [1]. Denmark announced a permanent boost to its Arctic footprint, rotating soldiers from multiple NATO partners to create a broader, multilateral presence [1]. The deployments are presented as a demonstration of European unity and a signal that a unilateral U.S. acquisition is unnecessary [1].

U.S. Stance Varies From Technical Talks to Force Options The White House described upcoming discussions with Denmark and Greenland as “technical talks on the acquisition agreement,” emphasizing a diplomatic pathway [1]. In contrast, President Trump publicly stated that all options, including the possible use of force, remain on the table as he pushes the Greenland bid [2]. This divergence highlights an internal inconsistency in the U.S. approach to the territory.

Greenland Leaders Insist on Autonomy and Legal Rights Greenlandic Prime Minister Jens‑Frederik Nielsen reiterated that Greenland is not for sale and that any change in status must respect self‑determination [1][2]. Danish Foreign Minister Lars Løkke Rasmussen echoed the same red lines, insisting that sovereignty rests with Denmark and Greenland [2]. A United Nations expert group also affirmed Greenland’s right to self‑determination, warning that any territorial alteration would breach international law [2].

Local Opinion Mixed While International Law Supports Self‑Determination Residents of Nuuk expressed anxiety about sovereignty shifts but also relief that diplomatic channels are active, framing the issue around resource control rather than immediate security threats [1]. Polling shows only 17 % of Americans favor purchasing Greenland, while Greenlandic surveys indicate broad opposition to U.S. statehood and a preference for eventual independence from Denmark [2]. A high‑level working group involving Danish and U.S. officials was created to reduce tensions and explore a framework that respects Greenlandic self‑determination [2].