Greenland Prime Minister Jens-Frederik Nielsen responded Thursday to remarks from President Donald Trump, rejecting the characterization of the Arctic territory as a “big, poorly run piece of ice” and emphasizing Greenland’s role as a responsible member of the international community.

Trump made the comments a day earlier while criticizing NATO amid heightened tensions over the Iran conflict, reviving frustrations over the alliance and referencing Greenland, a semi-autonomous territory of Denmark that is a NATO member. His remarks come amid ongoing disputes with allies and previous efforts to pursue U.S. control of the island.

Nielsen pushed back on the description, stating that Greenland is home to approximately 57,000 people who contribute as “good global citizens” and maintain strong relationships with allied nations. He stressed the importance of preserving the international system established after World War II, including respect for defense alliances and adherence to international law.

The comments also follow earlier tensions within NATO after Trump renewed interest in acquiring Greenland from Denmark, prompting concern among allied nations about unity within the alliance.

Nielsen called for cooperation among allies to uphold global stability, warning that existing international frameworks are being challenged and require collective support to maintain.