The Prime Ministers of Denmark and Greenland have publicly urged U.S. President Donald Trump to refrain from making threats regarding the potential annexation of Greenland. This call comes in response to Trump’s recent remarks suggesting that the United States requires the territory for its strategic resources and national security.
During the weekend, Trump reiterated his stance in an interview with The Atlantic, stating that Greenland is essential for U.S. defense. He asserted, “We need Greenland. It’s so strategic. Right now, Greenland is covered with Russian and Chinese ships all over the place.” These comments were echoed in statements made to reporters aboard Air Force One, where he emphasized the necessity for the U.S. to maintain a presence in the region.
In a forceful response, Danish Prime Minister Mette Frederiksen expressed her disapproval on social media, stating, “It makes absolutely no sense to talk about the U.S. needing to take over Greenland. The U.S. has no right to annex any of the three countries in the Danish kingdom.” She highlighted that Denmark is a member of NATO and is protected under the alliance’s security guarantees. Frederiksen urged the United States to cease its threats against Denmark and Greenland, both of which have clearly stated that they are not for sale.
Jens-Frederik Nielsen, Prime Minister of Greenland, also criticized Trump’s comments, calling them “disrespectful.” He took issue with the connection made between Greenland and military intervention, particularly in relation to Venezuela. “When the president of the United States talks about ‘we need Greenland’ and connects us with Venezuela and military intervention, it’s not just wrong. This is so disrespectful,” Nielsen remarked.
In contrast, Trump’s recently appointed envoy to Greenland, Jeff Landry, downplayed the administration’s intentions. Speaking on Fox News, Landry stated that the U.S. aims to engage in conversations with the people of Greenland rather than pursuing a takeover. “Well, I think our discussions should be with the actual people in Greenland — the Greenlanders,” he said, emphasizing the need to understand their needs and aspirations.
Trump announced Landry’s appointment on social media, asserting that he understands the significance of Greenland to U.S. national security and will work to advance American interests in the region.
Tensions surrounding U.S. interests in Greenland have been further complicated by geopolitical dynamics, particularly as China and Russia seek to establish a foothold in the Arctic. Col. Susan Meyers, the former commander of a U.S. Space Force base in Greenland, was dismissed last spring after contradicting official messaging during a visit from Vice President JD Vance. Vance had emphasized the importance of securing Greenland due to its strategic location and the interest shown by rival nations.
“We need to ensure that America is leading in the Arctic, because we know that if America doesn’t, other nations will fill the gap where we fall behind,” Vance stated during his visit.
As these discussions unfold, both Denmark and Greenland remain firm in their stance of sovereignty and independence. The international community will be watching closely as the U.S. continues to navigate its relationship with these territories, balancing national security interests with the sovereignty of its allies.
