Denmark PM Visits Greenland to Reaffirm Support Amid U.S. Tensions

Denmark’s Prime Minister Mette Frederiksen visited Greenland on Friday to demonstrate political backing for the Arctic island following recent tensions caused by statements from U.S. President Donald Trump about annexation.

Frederiksen arrived in Nuuk after holding talks in Brussels with NATO Secretary General Mark Rutte, where discussions focused on Arctic security and the role of the alliance in the region. At Nuuk airport, she was received by Greenland’s Prime Minister Jens-Frederik Nielsen, highlighting cooperation between Denmark and the self-governing territory.

Greenland manages its internal affairs but remains part of the Danish kingdom. Its strategic location in the Arctic has drawn increased international attention, particularly from the United States.

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Danish and Greenlandic authorities have stated that the island is not for sale and that sovereignty is not subject to negotiation. Both governments, however, have expressed readiness to engage in discussions on defence cooperation, security arrangements, and economic development.

Speaking to reporters in Nuuk, Frederiksen said her visit was intended to show support for Greenland’s population during a challenging period and confirmed that Denmark and Greenland were coordinating their next steps.

The diplomatic strain followed comments by Trump claiming the United States had secured permanent access to Greenland and his refusal to rule out the use of military force to acquire the territory. He also announced tariffs on European countries opposing the proposal, prompting concern among NATO allies and European governments. The situation eased after Trump withdrew the tariff threat and stated he would not pursue the use of force.

The United States already has extensive military access to Greenland under existing treaties, although its presence has been reduced since the Cold War to one small base.

Frederiksen said NATO must increase its involvement in the Arctic, describing regional defence and security as a collective responsibility. Rutte confirmed ongoing cooperation with Denmark to strengthen deterrence.

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Denmark’s foreign minister said Danish and U.S. officials met in Washington to establish a structured approach going forward, including discussions on updating a 1951 agreement governing U.S. military access and activities in Greenland.