Denmark’s Prime Minister Mette Frederiksen has called for stronger Arctic defence cooperation with the US, while she strongly rejected the idea of the US annexing Greenland. During a visit to Greenland, Frederiksen addressed the ongoing tensions over US President Donald Trump’s repeated claim that Greenland should become part of the US.
Speaking from a military vessel, she sent a clear message to the US: “You cannot annex another country, not even with arguments about security.” Her comments came shortly after US Secretary of State Marco Rubio met with Denmark’s Foreign Minister Lars Lokke Rasmussen at a NATO meeting in Brussels.
Rubio acknowledged Greenland’s right to self-determination, reaffirming the strong ties between the US and Denmark. Meanwhile, Greenland’s newly elected Prime Minister, Jens-Frederik Nielsen, stressed the importance of Denmark and Greenland standing together in the face of external pressure.
Tensions escalated last week after US Vice President JD Vance visited a US military base in northern Greenland, accusing Denmark of failing to protect the Arctic island and suggesting the US could do a better job. Frederiksen responded by calling Vance’s statement inappropriate and underscored Denmark’s commitment to Arctic security, including investments in new ships, drones and satellite systems. He made it clear that if the US wants a strong presence in Greenland, it should work together with Denmark and Greenland rather than trying to take control.
Why Does the U.S. Want Greenland?
Military Strategy
Greenland’s location is crucial for missile defense and early warning systems.
The U.S. operates Thule Air Base, an important Arctic military outpost.
Helps counter Russian and Chinese influence in the region.
Natural Resources
Rich in oil, gas, and rare earth minerals used in technology and defense.
The U.S. wants to reduce dependence on China, which controls rare earth markets.
New Arctic Trade Routes
Climate change is melting Arctic ice, opening shorter global shipping routes.
Greenland’s location gives strategic access to these routes.
Preventing Foreign Influence
China has shown interest in investing in Greenland’s infrastructure.
Russia is increasing its military presence in the Arctic.
The U.S. wants to block foreign control over the island.
Trump’s Greenland Purchase Attempt (2019)
Trump proposed buying Greenland, calling it a “strategic real estate deal.”
Denmark and Greenland firmly rejected the idea.
Denmark & Greenland’s Response
Denmark is boosting Arctic defense investments (ships, drones, satellites).
Greenland insists it is not for sale, but is open to security cooperation with the U.S.
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