Canada and France officially opened consulates in Nuuk, the capital of Greenland, on Friday. This marks a strong show of support for Greenland's local government against former US President Donald Trump's threats. Trump had pushed for the US to take control of Greenland, a mineral-rich Arctic island, citing security reasons. Last month, he backed off his seizure plans after reaching a "framework" deal with NATO chief Mark Rutte. A US-Denmark-Greenland working group now discusses Arctic security issues, though details remain secret. Danish and Greenlandic leaders stress that sovereignty is a "red line" in talks. Canadian Foreign Minister Anita Anand said at the consulate opening, "This is a very important day for us as a country, because we’re opening our consulate here in Nuuk, Greenland." She raised Canada's flag to applause. Political scientist Jeppe Strandsbjerg said, "It’s a victory for Greenlanders to see two allies opening diplomatic representations in Nuuk. There is great appreciation for the support against what Trump has said." French President Emmanuel Macron had announced plans for a consulate during a visit to Nuuk in June, expressing Europe's "solidarity" with Greenland. French consul Jean-Noel Poirier said, "The first item on the agenda will be to listen to Greenlanders... and confirm our support." Canada had decided in late 2024 to open the consulate to boost Arctic cooperation. Experts say the new consulates signal that Greenland’s fate concerns not just Denmark but also European allies and Canada. The consulates will report to their embassies in Copenhagen. This step helps Greenland practice independence and diversify its external ties beyond Denmark, says security analyst Christine Nissen. Greenland has had formal ties with the EU since 1992 and reopened US diplomatic presence in 2020. Iceland and the European Commission also maintain offices in Nuuk. The openings mark Greenland’s growing autonomy under its 2009 Self-Government Act.