Greenland’s people would choose Denmark over the United States if asked today, Greenlandic Prime Minister Jens-Frederik Nielsen said, responding to renewed US pressure over the semi-autonomous island.

Nielsen made the remark at a joint news conference with Danish Prime Minister Mette Frederiksen, the strongest statement yet from Greenland since former US President Donald Trump revived plans to annex the island. Trump has claimed the US needs to “own” Greenland to counter Russia and China and suggested buying the territory, without ruling out force.

Frederiksen condemned the “completely unacceptable pressure” from the US and warned that any military action could harm the trans-Atlantic NATO alliance.

Greenland’s strategic location between North America and the Arctic makes it important for missile early warning systems and monitoring vessels. The US already has more than 100 military personnel stationed at Pituffik base under existing agreements with Denmark.

Nielsen said Greenland does not want to be governed or owned by the US, calling the situation a “geopolitical crisis.”

European allies, including major NATO members, have expressed support for Denmark, stressing that only Denmark and Greenland can decide on matters regarding the island.

Danish and Greenlandic officials are scheduled to travel to the US to meet Vice President JD Vance and Secretary of State Marco Rubio.

Greenland’s growing resource potential, including rare earth minerals, uranium, iron, oil, and gas, has increased international interest, especially as climate change melts ice and improves access.

With inputs from BBC