Denmark is facing a critical test over the future of Greenland, Prime Minister Mette Frederiksen has said, after US President Donald Trump renewed threats to take control of the Arctic territory. The comments come amid rising geopolitical tensions over the Arctic’s strategic and economic importance.
Speaking ahead of high-level meetings in Washington, DC, focused on global competition for key raw materials, Frederiksen warned that the issue goes far beyond Greenland alone.
“There is a conflict over Greenland,” she said, describing the situation as “a decisive moment” for Denmark, Europe, and the international rules-based order.
Denmark Vows to Defend International Law and Arctic Stability
Frederiksen stressed that Denmark is prepared to stand firm in defence of its values, including international law and the right of peoples to self-determination.
“We are ready to defend our values — wherever it is necessary — also in the Arctic,” she said in a public statement shared on social media. “We believe in international law and in peoples’ right to decide their own future.”
Greenland is a self-governing territory within the Kingdom of Denmark, and any change to its status would require the consent of its population.
European Leaders Rally Behind Denmark
Several European countries have expressed clear support for Denmark following Trump’s latest remarks. Sweden and Germany were among the first to condemn what they described as threatening rhetoric from Washington.
Swedish Prime Minister Ulf Kristersson warned that any attempt to seize Greenland would undermine international norms and could set a dangerous precedent.
“A takeover would be a violation of international law,” Kristersson said, adding that it could encourage similar actions elsewhere. He emphasised that Nordic, Baltic, and major European states stand united with Denmark.
📊 Key Facts: Greenland and the Arctic Dispute
| Topic | Details |
|---|---|
| Territory | Greenland |
| Political Status | Self-governing territory of Denmark |
| Strategic Value | Rich in minerals, key Arctic location |
| US Position | Claims control is vital for national security |
| European Response | Strong support for Denmark |
| Public Opinion in Greenland | Majority oppose US takeover |
NATO and Arctic Security Discussions Intensify
Concerns over Arctic security have also reached NATO, with growing discussions about the region’s future stability. Germany reiterated its backing for Denmark ahead of diplomatic talks in Washington, while German Foreign Minister Johann Wadephul highlighted the Arctic’s rising importance within NATO’s collective security framework.
“Security in the Arctic is becoming more and more important,” Wadephul said during talks in Iceland, calling it a shared NATO interest.
Reports in the UK media suggest that European military planners are exploring options for a potential NATO presence in Greenland, aimed at countering increased Russian and Chinese activity in the Arctic.
Calls for a Coordinated NATO Arctic Mission
Belgian Defence Minister Theo Francken has proposed a dedicated NATO operation in the Arctic, arguing that unity and cooperation are essential.
“We have to collaborate, work together and show strength,” Francken said, suggesting an “Arctic Sentry” mission modeled on NATO’s existing surveillance operations in the Baltic region.
UK officials have also acknowledged ongoing discussions among allies, describing them as routine coordination to deter potential security threats in an increasingly contested region.
Greenland’s Past and Its Future
Greenland was a Danish colony until 1953, later gaining home rule and expanded autonomy. While discussions about eventual independence continue, polls consistently show that Greenlanders strongly oppose becoming part of the United States.
As global interest in Arctic resources and shipping routes grows, Denmark and its allies are seeking to balance security concerns with respect for sovereignty and self-determination.
For Frederiksen, the message is clear: the future of Greenland must be decided by its people — not imposed by external pressure.
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