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Danish Prime Minister Mette Frederiksen reiterated on Monday that Greenland is “not for sale,” yet expressed openness to enhancing the American military presence on the Arctic island. This statement came during a meeting of European Union leaders in Brussels, amid discussions about Greenland’s strategic status and its role as a self-governing territory of Denmark.
Addressing doubts over President Donald Trump’s ambitions for Greenland, Frederiksen emphasized the importance of respecting sovereignty among nations.
“We have been very clear from the Kingdom of Denmark, with strong support from our European partners, that all nations must respect each other’s sovereignty. Greenland belongs to the Kingdom of Denmark; it is our territory, and it is not for sale,” she stated firmly. Frederiksen added that Greenland’s leadership has also clearly expressed that the territory is not up for sale.
Support for US Military Footprint
Frederiksen indicated that Denmark would welcome an increase in US military personnel on Greenland, where the US Space Force currently operates a base for monitoring missile threats.
“I completely agree with the Americans that the High North, particularly the Arctic region, is growing in importance concerning defense, security, and deterrence,” she explained. The prime minister noted that both China and Russia have been increasingly active in the area, stressing the need for the US and Denmark to explore stronger military collaborations.
Cooperation Amid Rising Geopolitical Tensions
“The US is already present in Greenland, and there are opportunities for expanding that presence. We, as a part of the Kingdom of Denmark, are ready to enhance our own contributions,” Frederiksen stated. She advocated for strengthening NATO’s presence in the Arctic as part of a broader strategy to ensure regional security.
Frederiksen also addressed Trump’s previous threats to impose tariffs on European Union imports. She expressed solidarity among EU members, indicating that collective action would be necessary if tariffs were imposed.
“We are committed to supporting each other and standing united. Fighting with allies is not an option. However, if the US enacts harsh tariffs on Europe, we will need a robust response,” she emphasized.
Strengthening Arctic Defense Capabilities
Recently, Frederiksen’s government finalized an agreement worth nearly $2 billion with Greenland and the Faeroe Islands to bolster Denmark’s military capabilities in the Arctic region. This initiative includes procuring three new naval vessels, additional long-range surveillance drones, and boosting satellite capabilities to enhance monitoring and defense.
European Council President Antonio Costa supported these measures, asserting the EU’s commitment to defending the territorial integrity of its member states. He highlighted that the EU’s principles extend to Greenland, reinforcing solidarity in the face of potential threats.
Response to US Political Dynamics
Trump’s ambitions regarding Greenland have been met with skepticism. He has claimed that control over Greenland and the Panama Canal is essential for US national security. His administration has faced criticism domestically and internationally regarding its aggressive stance on territorial claims.
In recent comments, Vice President JD Vance suggested that Denmark’s management of Greenland needed improvement, labeling it as inadequate concerning national security interests. Vance expressed concerns over territorial security, given the increasing activities of China and Russia in the region.
Frederiksen responded by asserting Denmark’s long-standing alliance with the US, saying, “We have fought alongside Americans for many decades. Denmark remains one of your closest allies. I reject any notion of being a poor ally.” She underscored the significance of Arctic cooperation, emphasizing the need for joint efforts against common challenges such as terrorism and destabilization.
Future of Arctic Alliances
The discourse surrounding Greenland encapsulates a broader narrative of Arctic geopolitics, with potential implications for NATO and the EU. Frederiksen’s remarks reflect a commitment to collaborative security measures in response to changing dynamics in the Arctic.
Frederiksen concluded by highlighting the importance of collaboration within NATO and the need for the US and Denmark to work together in addressing regional security threats.
“Together, we can address the complexities we face, including challenges from Russia and ongoing tensions in the Baltic Sea,” she concluded, affirming Denmark’s dedication to maintaining strong NATO ties and contributing to collective regional defense.
Reporting contributed by the Associated Press.
