Greenland's prime minister, Jens-Frederik Nielsen, said the territory will not capitulate to external pressure, addressing concerns about foreign influence and domestic unease during a public appearance in Paris.
Speaking at Science Po University, Nielsen described the government's current task as pushing back against outside pressure while tending to the population's anxieties. "What we are dealing with as a government is trying to push back from outside and handle our people who are afraid and scared," he said.
At the same event, Nielsen also said Greenland needs to expand surveillance and security in the Arctic "because of the way Russia acts now," while reiterating that Greenland will not submit to external demands.
Danish Prime Minister Mette Frederiksen, who appeared alongside Nielsen, framed the current moment as a departure from the post-World War II order. "The world order as we know it that we have been fighting for 80 years is over and I don't think it will return," she said.
Frederiksen urged cohesion among Western partners as a response. "The best way forward for the U.S, Europe is to stick together," she said, adding: "We will try to find a way forward with U.S. We share concerns on Arctic security. Russia does not want peace with Europe."
The joint Paris appearance followed a meeting in Berlin on Tuesday with German Chancellor Friedrich Merz. The two leaders have been engaging European counterparts as they seek allied support for their positions.
These statements were made in the wake of comments by U.S. President Donald Trump, who recently said he had secured a framework for a future deal regarding Greenland. Trump, who has a history of expressing interest in the territory, did not provide specifics of the proposed framework but indicated that discussions would continue.
Context and next steps
The leaders' public remarks underline a focus on Arctic security measures and diplomatic coordination with Western partners. They have been actively consulting European allies, including a recent meeting with Germany's chancellor, as they navigate the interplay of local concerns and international pressure.
At the same time, references to an unspecified U.S. framework for a potential deal keep aspects of the situation uncertain, as no detailed arrangement has been presented publicly.