Late one evening, aboard Air Force One, U.S. President Donald Trump repeated his desire to take control of Greenland, causing tensions to rise between the United States and Denmark. Speaking to reporters from the BBC, Trump said, “I don’t really understand Denmark’s claim to it, but refusing would be an unfriendly move because this is about protecting the free world.”
The controversial remarks have put additional strain on the relationship between the two NATO allies and underscored the ongoing geopolitical struggle over the Arctic region. Danish Prime Minister Mette Frederiksen (S), however, reaffirmed her government’s unwavering position on the matter, telling DR Nyheder, “What we’re hearing from the President isn’t new, and our response remains the same.” She added, “As Naalakkersuisut’s President has stated very clearly: Greenland is not for sale.”
Prime Minister Frederiksen emphasized the urgency for a united European front in the face of the evolving geopolitical landscape. “We must be honest and admit this is an unusual situation for all of Europe,” she said. “We have been each other’s closest allies since World War II, and I will do everything in my power to ensure Europeans and Americans remain aligned.”
Denmark’s role in strengthening European unity
Frederiksen’s comments reflect her growing advocacy for European cohesion, a notable shift for Denmark, which has historically taken a cautious approach toward European integration.
Denmark’s evolving stance on European integration could mark a turning point. Historically cautious, Frederiksen’s government now appears ready to embrace deeper EU collaboration, a shift likely influenced by the Arctic crisis and growing tensions with Washington. The upcoming EU presidency provides Denmark with a critical opportunity to lead discussions on Europe’s strategic autonomy and defense initiatives.
As Frederiksen succinctly put it, “I cannot think of a time when unity in Europe has been more important.”
A new Arctic policy in the works
Frederiksen also stressed the importance of strengthening Europe’s defense capabilities, particularly in the Arctic. “It’s crucial that Europe takes the steps we’ve been too slow to take: asserting ourselves and bolstering our defenses,” she said. The Danish government is reportedly close to finalizing a new Arctic strategy, which Frederiksen hopes to present to the Danish Parliament soon.
“It will be expensive and challenging,” she admitted, “but we must protect our country and our NATO alliance.”
