Daijiworld Media Network - Washington

Washington, Jan 7: US secretary of state Marco Rubio has reassured lawmakers that President Donald Trump’s intention to bring Greenland under American control is focused on negotiation with Denmark rather than a military takeover, according to a Wall Street Journal report. Rubio’s comments came amid growing global unease over the White House’s increasingly assertive rhetoric about the Arctic territory.

During a private briefing with congressional leaders, Rubio emphasized that Washington prefers to pressure Copenhagen into discussions about Greenland’s future through diplomatic channels. He sought to calm fears that the administration was preparing any forceful action to seize the strategically significant island.

Despite these assurances, the White House has continued to frame Greenland as a core national security priority. Press Secretary Karoline Leavitt reiterated that Trump believes control of the island is crucial for countering Russian and Chinese influence in the Arctic and suggested that a “range of options” — including military ones — remain on the table.

Trump has repeatedly stated publicly that the United States “needs” Greenland for national security reasons and that allies in Europe understand this position. However, the mixed messaging from top officials — with senior adviser Stephen Miller refusing to rule out force — has amplified concern in Washington and abroad.

The issue has alarmed NATO partners. An American military move against Greenland, a semi-autonomous territory of Denmark and a NATO ally, could strain the alliance, European officials warn, and has drawn coordinated diplomatic responses. France is reportedly working with allies to prepare a response plan should the U.S. pursue aggressive action.

Denmark’s leadership has been clear that any attempt to take over Greenland by force would jeopardize decades of cooperation and could undermine NATO itself. Danish Prime Minister Mette Frederiksen warned that a U.S. takeover “would mean the end” of the alliance.

Meanwhile, Denmark and Greenland have requested talks with Rubio to address the growing tensions sparked by the U.S. statements — seeking diplomatic engagement to clarify Washington’s intentions.

Polls indicate that most Greenlanders oppose becoming part of the United States, adding to the diplomatic complexity faced by negotiators. The Economist
Rubio’s briefing also formed part of a wider discussion on U.S. foreign policy, including efforts regarding Venezuela, which has heightened some lawmakers’ concerns about Trump’s willingness to employ force in pursuit of foreign policy goals.

Overall, while military action has not been officially ruled out, the administration’s stated strategy remains centered on diplomatic pressure and negotiation with Denmark over Greenland’s future