Trump threats to Greenland could pose new challenge to NATO

The White House said it is weighing options, including military force, regarding Greenland; Denmark and several NATO allies have publicly defended Greenland's sovereignty and warned the idea could strain the alliance.

U.S. statements about taking control of Greenland have prompted concern among NATO members and analysts. The White House described Greenland as a national security priority and said a range of options is under discussion, not ruling out the use of military force. Denmark and multiple European allies issued statements defending Greenland's sovereignty and stressing it is for Denmark and Greenland to decide. Officials and experts say the episode arrives as NATO is focused on supporting Ukraine and could affect alliance unity. Officials' statements: - The White House announced it is weighing a range of options over Greenland and said the U.S. military remains an available option. - Denmark, Britain, France, Germany, Italy, Poland and Spain issued a joint statement defending Greenland's sovereignty and saying decisions are for Denmark and Greenland alone; Canada also expressed support for Denmark. - A NATO official declined to speculate on hypotheticals and emphasized the Arctic's strategic importance and NATO's interest in preserving security and stability in the high north. - Danish Prime Minister Mette Frederiksen warned the threats must be taken seriously and said an attempt by one ally to seize another could have grave consequences for the alliance; analysts said the matter could distract allies from their work on Ukraine. Summary: Officials and analysts say the White House discussion of options for Greenland has raised concerns about NATO cohesion and credibility and could distract members from external priorities such as support for Ukraine. Undetermined at this time.