Greenland braces for unexpected: PM warns US conflict can't be ruled out
Photo: Donald Trump, President of the United States (Getty Images)
A military conflict between Greenland and the United States is unlikely, but such a scenario cannot be ruled out. Residents of the island need to be prepared, stated Greenland’s Prime Minister Jens-Frederik Nielsen, according to Bloomberg.
"It’s not likely there will be a military conflict, but it can’t be ruled out," he said.
He added that the Greenlandic government will form a working group with representatives from all relevant local authorities to help the population prepare for potential disruptions in daily life.
According to him, work is also underway to communicate new recommendations to residents, including advice to have at least a five-day supply of food at home.
Greenland’s Finance Minister and former leader Múte B. Egede said that Greenland is under "a lot of pressure" and "we need to be ready for all scenarios."
Bloomberg notes that as part of strengthening the territory’s security, Denmark and seven other NATO countries sent several officers to the island last week under the Operation Arctic Endurance. Denmark’s Joint Arctic Command will now expand military exercises, which could be conducted year-round.
Trump wants to buy Greenland
Previously, US President Donald Trump expressed intentions to buy Greenland, claiming it was a national security issue for the United States.
On January 14, media reports suggested that US Secretary of State Marco Rubio was tasked with preparing a proposal to purchase Greenland.
Recently, Trump also imposed tariffs on several European countries, stating that these restrictions would remain until Europe agrees to sell Greenland.
However, Trump recently declined to comment on the possibility of using force to annex Greenland to the US.
Read more about how Trump is pressuring Europe in the material by RBC-Ukraine.
