Danish Prime Minister Mette Frederiksen has issued a firm rebuke to President Donald Trump, urging him to cease threats regarding the United States potentially taking over Greenland. This comes after Trump reiterated his interest in the vast Arctic island, telling a magazine, “We do need Greenland, absolutely. We need it for defense.”
Frederiksen’s stance was unequivocal: “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.” Concerns in Denmark heightened following Trump’s previous comments about “running” Venezuela, sparking fears that a similar, unwelcome move could be considered for Greenland, a self-governing Danish territory.
Greenland, according to Denmark, is simply not for sale. Despite this clear message, the Trump administration has continued its overtures, even appointing Louisiana Governor Jeff Landry as a special envoy to the region. U.S. interest stems from Greenland’s crucial strategic location between Europe and North America, making it vital for ballistic missile defense. Furthermore, its rich deposits of minerals are attractive, as Washington aims to reduce its reliance on Chinese exports.
While Greenland, a former Danish colony, possesses the right to declare independence, it remains significantly dependent on Danish financial support. Denmark, in response to these tensions, has been working to repair strained relations with Greenland and ease diplomatic friction with the Trump administration by increasing its own investments in Arctic defense. The message from Copenhagen remains steadfast: Greenland is an ally and a nation, not a commodity to be acquired.
