U.S. Vice President Vance [AP Yonhap News]

U.S. Vice President J.D. Vance emphasized on the 8th (local time) that European countries should "take President Donald Trump's stance seriously" regarding Greenland.

Vance responded in this manner when asked at a press briefing at the White House about what message he had for European leaders opposing the United States' acquisition of Greenland.

"Greenland is truly important for global missile defense, not just for U.S. missile defense," Vance stated. "We know there are adversaries who have shown a lot of interest in that territory."

He added, "So we are asking our European allies to take the security of that land more seriously. If Europe doesn't, the United States will have to do something, and I will leave what that is to the President's decision while we continue diplomatic efforts with our European allies."

President Trump has argued that Greenland is important for U.S. security and needs to be acquired, but Denmark and major European countries oppose this. Secretary of State Mike Pompeo is expected to meet with Danish officials next week to discuss this matter.