Germany Downplays Risk of US Military Move on Greenland as Trump Renews Takeover Threats

Germany’s foreign minister has sought to calm rising tensions over President Donald Trump’s repeated threats to seize Greenland, saying there is “no indication” that a US military attack is being seriously considered. His remarks come as Washington prepares for high‑level talks with Denmark and Greenland amid escalating rhetoric from the White House.

German Foreign Minister Johann Wadephul, speaking after a meeting with US Secretary of State Marco Rubio, said he believed the focus should remain on shared Arctic security concerns rather than unilateral action.
“I have no indication that this is being seriously considered,” he told reporters, adding that NATO is still developing joint Arctic defense plans that will be discussed with the United States.

Wadephul’s visit precedes scheduled talks in Washington between Rubio and senior diplomats from Denmark and Greenland, the latter being an autonomous Danish territory.

Greenland Rejects Trump’s Takeover Threats
In recent days, Trump has vowed that the United States will take Greenland “one way or the other”, saying it could be done “the nice way or the more difficult way”.
Greenland’s government responded firmly on Monday, reiterating that it would not accept a US takeover “under any circumstance.”

NATO and Greenland Boost Arctic Defense
Both Greenland and NATO confirmed they are working to strengthen Arctic defense — a key justification Trump has cited for his interest in the island. The US president has repeatedly pointed to increased Russian and Chinese activity in the region as a national security concern.

However, Trump has also spoken more broadly about his desire to expand US‑controlled territory, adding a geopolitical dimension that has alarmed European allies.