Britain has issued a firm rebuke to the United States, declaring it will not permit its military assets to be used in any potential invasion of Greenland. The statement from Defence Secretary John Healey comes after former US President Donald Trump renewed threats to acquire the vast Arctic territory.
UK Draws a Firm Line in the Arctic
During a visit to Kyiv on Friday 09 January 2026, John Healey was asked explicitly if British bases, personnel, or equipment could support a US operation targeting Greenland. He responded with a resolute "There’s no question of that."
Healey emphasised the alliance framework, stating, "Greenland and Denmark are part of Nato. We and the US are part of that alliance with treaty obligations." He clarified the UK's position, noting that any military support would only be given if the purpose was correct and a sound legal basis existed.
Trump's Threats and the White House Stance
The UK's definitive position follows a week of escalating rhetoric from Washington. Donald Trump told reporters at the White House that the US needs to own Greenland to prevent future occupation by Russia or China. "We are going to do something on Greenland whether they like it or not," he asserted during a meeting with oil executives.
The White House has refused to rule out taking the Danish territory by force. However, Denmark maintains Greenland is not for sale, with its defence minister warning that Danish forces would 'shoot first and ask questions later' in the event of an invasion.
Diplomatic Fallout and European Unity
The situation has triggered a flurry of diplomatic activity. Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer discussed the issue in a "positive" and "friendly" phone call with Trump on Wednesday evening, Downing Street sources said. Starmer has stated that Greenland's future is solely a matter for its 57,000 people and Denmark.
Britain and its European allies have issued a joint statement pledging to "not stop defending" the island's territorial integrity, seen as a direct message to the US. Vice President JD Vance argued that Europe has failed to grasp the security imperative, stating "Greenland is critical, not just to our national security, but to the world’s national security."
The US already maintains a military presence on the island under a 1951 agreement, but the current administration argues Denmark has not done enough to uphold global security in the region.
