Danish Prime Minister Mette Frederiksen's recent tour of European capitals highlights the concerns surrounding US interest in Greenland as she secures backing from European leaders.
European Leaders Rally Around Denmark Amid Greenland Tensions
European Leaders Rally Around Denmark Amid Greenland Tensions
As Greenland's autonomy is questioned, European allies express support for Denmark.
Danish Prime Minister Mette Frederiksen is on a pivotal diplomatic mission through Europe, navigating discussions with prominent leaders amid mounting tensions surrounding the Arctic territory of Greenland. The trip comes closely on the heels of US President Donald Trump's renewed assertions that he wants to acquire Greenland, an autonomous Danish territory.
On Tuesday, Frederiksen commenced her whirlwind journey, meeting German Chancellor Olaf Scholz in Berlin, French President Emmanuel Macron in Paris, and NATO chief Mark Rutte in Brussels. While much of the discourse revolved around pressing issues such as the conflict in Ukraine and the threat of hybrid warfare emanating from Russia, the unease in Denmark over Trump's comments loomed large throughout her discussions.
Greenland's Prime Minister Mute Egede has vocalized the territory's push for greater independence from Denmark, firmly stating that the people of Greenland "don't want to be American." This sentiment echoes throughout Frederiksen's meetings, where neither she nor Scholz openly addressed Trump or the acquisition of Greenland. However, Scholz did emphasize during their joint press conference the importance of territorial respect and the principle against the use of force, a clear nod to current international concerns.
In Paris, Frederiksen reported receiving what she described as "robust support" from her European counterparts, underlining a united front regarding respect for national sovereignty. At her concluding engagement in Brussels, she expressed confidence that no military threat currently jeopardizes Greenland or Denmark.
When questioned about the potential implications of Trump's foreign policy on European relations, Frederiksen acknowledged a forthcoming transformation, noting, “I think everyone in Europe can see that it will be a different collaboration now.”
Frederiksen and Rutte furthered the conversation regarding defense in the Arctic, reflecting a consensus among allies on the need for enhanced security measures in the region. While Frederiksen's responses were carefully curated to avoid deeper discussions of the Greenland situation, Danish Foreign Minister Lars Lokke Rasmussen was more definitive, firmly stating that Trump would "not have Greenland."
Rasmussen's remarks were notable as he drew attention to international law, asserting that Greenlanders are recognized as a people with rights. Amid ongoing discussions, Danish opposition figure Rasmus Jarlov reiterated that many in the US may misinterpret Danish reluctance as a desire for Greenlanders to align with American interests post-independence.
On Monday, Denmark announced a significant financial investment of 14.6 billion kroner (approximately $2.05 billion) aimed at bolstering security within the Arctic region, a strategic move in alliance with both Greenland and the Faroe Islands. This investment underscores Denmark's commitment to safeguarding its territories and reinforcing regional stability despite external pressures.
