NUUK – On Monday, China cautioned the United States against using other nations as a “pretext” for pursuing its strategic interests in Greenland, asserting that its Arctic activities adhere to international law.

President Donald Trump has expressed interest in negotiating the acquisition of Greenland, a semiautonomous territory linked to NATO ally Denmark. His motivation is to prevent Russian or Chinese dominance in the region. As his administration continues to press the matter, tensions have escalated among Washington, Denmark, and Greenland. The White House is reportedly considering various strategies, including potential military options, to gain control over the expansive Arctic island.

Danish Prime Minister Mette Frederiksen has cautioned that an American acquisition of Greenland could spell the end of NATO. Last Friday, Greenland’s Prime Minister Jens-Frederik Nielsen, alongside leaders of the other four parliamentary parties, released a joint statement. They emphasized that Greenland’s destiny should be determined by its residents and urged the United States to respect their sovereignty.

During a conversation aboard Air Force One on Sunday, Trump reaffirmed his stance, stating that the U.S. must “take Greenland” to prevent Russian or Chinese occupation. He expressed a preference for negotiating a deal but indicated that acquiring Greenland was imperative, one way or another.

In 2018, China declared itself a “near-Arctic state” as part of its strategy to expand its influence in the region. The country has also unveiled plans for a “Polar Silk Road,” integrating it into the broader Belt and Road Initiative, which seeks to forge economic connections globally.

Asked in Beijing Monday about U.S. statements that it is necessary for Washington to take over Greenland to prevent China and Russia from taking control, Chinese Foreign Ministry spokesperson Mao Ning replied that “China’s activities in the Arctic are aimed at promoting peace, stability, and sustainable development in the region and are in accordance with international law.” She didn’t elaborate on those activities.

“The rights and freedoms of all countries to conduct activities in the Arctic in accordance with the law should be fully respected,” Mao said, without mentioning Greenland directly. “The U.S. should not pursue its own interests by using other countries as a pretext.”

She said that “the Arctic concerns the overall interests of the international community.”

Danish and Greenlandic envoys are expected in Washington this week for talks, and plans are also being put together for U.S. senators to visit Denmark.