U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio said he will meet Danish leaders next week, signalling that Washington is not retreating from President Donald Trump’s stated goal of acquiring Greenland, despite mounting concern among European allies.
Speaking on Wednesday (7 January) in Washington, Rubio said President Trump continues to view Greenland as strategically vital to U.S. security and has not ruled out military options, even as the administration insists diplomacy remains its preferred approach.
“As a diplomat, which is what I am now, we always prefer to settle issues through other means,” Rubio told reporters, adding that diplomacy had been pursued in previous crises as well.
The White House confirmed that Trump and his national security team are actively discussing options, including a possible purchase of Greenland. Press Secretary Karoline Leavitt said diplomacy remained the president’s first option, while stressing that “all options are always on the table.”
France, Germany and Poland held consultations on a coordinated response, while European Union leaders reiterated support for Denmark and Greenland, warning against violations of international law.
A senior European official said Denmark is expected to take the lead in coordinating any response but has yet to specify what form of support it seeks from allies.
Greenland, which is strategically located between Europe and North America, has long hosted key elements of the U.S. missile defence system. Its mineral resources are also seen in Washington as critical to reducing reliance on China.
Leaders from major European countries and Canada have publicly backed Greenland this week, emphasising that the territory belongs to its people. Greenlandic officials again rejected any suggestion of annexation, saying the island is not for sale.
Danish Foreign Minister Lars Løkke Rasmussen and Greenland’s foreign affairs minister have requested an urgent meeting with Rubio, calling for a more measured dialogue.
Trump has renewed claims that Russian and Chinese activity near Greenland poses a security threat, assertions Denmark has disputed. Vessel tracking data reviewed by Reuters shows no Chinese or Russian ships operating near the island.
NATO allies are expected to discuss the issue at a scheduled meeting later this week.
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