Barrot spoke after Denmark said the United States still aimed to take control of the mineral-rich Arctic island.

"Arctic security is inseparable from... European security," Barrot said.

"We stand in support and solidarity with Denmark, just as we would hope to be able to count on Denmark's support and solidarity if we found ourselves in the same situation today".

Greenland "is a European territory that is placed under NATO protection," Barrot said, adding: "NATO, NATO's allies, European countries are fully capable of defending their territory against any threats, wherever they may come from".

Earlier on Thursday, French President Emmanuel Macron said France would soon send more "land, air, and sea" forces to join a military exercise in Greenland.

"A first team of French service members is already on site and will be reinforced in the coming days," he said.