Denmark Warns U.S. Over Greenland: ‘Shoot First, Ask Questions Later’ in Case of Invasion

Amid renewed controversy over U.S. President Donald Trump’s repeated assertions that Greenland should come under American control, Denmark’s Defence Ministry has issued a stark warning: if Greenland were to be invaded, Danish forces would be obliged to use force immediately under existing military rules of engagement.

Under a Cold War–era directive dating back to 1952, Danish troops are required to respond to any invasion without waiting for orders, even if commanders have not formally received notice of war. This “shoot first, ask questions later” rule, originally intended to ensure rapid defence in the event of a surprise attack, remains in force, the ministry confirmed to Danish daily Berlingske.

The defence statement comes as the White House reiterates Trump’s interest in acquiring Greenland — a vast Arctic territory with strategic military significance — and does not rule out the use of force to achieve that objective. White House Press Secretary Karoline Leavitt said acquiring Greenland is a U.S. national security priority, and that military options remain on the table, though diplomatic avenues are also under consideration.

Greenland, an autonomous part of the Kingdom of Denmark, has consistently rejected the notion of being sold or transferred to the United States. Danish Prime Minister Mette Frederiksen has warned that any U.S. attack on Greenland would effectively rupture the NATO alliance and undermine post–World War II security arrangements. European allies have echoed these concerns, underscoring the importance of respecting the territory’s sovereignty.

In recent days, Danish and Greenlandic envoys have held talks with U.S. officials in Washington, seeking to defuse tensions and emphasise that Greenland is not for sale, while U.S. lawmakers and international partners debate the implications of Trump’s remarks.

Trump’s focus on Greenland — driven in part by its strategic location and natural resources — has alarmed officials in Copenhagen and across Europe, prompting urgent diplomatic engagement to avert a crisis between longstanding allies.