Danish and Greenlandic leaders have called on U.S. President Donald Trump to refrain from discussing the acquisition of Greenland, following his recent comments expressing interest in the territory. Danish Prime Minister Mette Frederiksen emphasized that the U.S. has no authority to annex any part of the Danish Kingdom, stating that such discussions are baseless.
In an interview with The Atlantic magazine, Trump reiterated his belief that the U.S. requires Greenland for defense purposes. These remarks came shortly after the U.S. apprehended Venezuelan President Nicolas Maduro, with Trump indicating intentions to govern Venezuela.
The statements raised concerns in Denmark about the potential implications for Greenland, prompting Frederiksen to urge the U.S. to cease making threats against a longstanding ally that has made it clear it is not up for sale. Greenland’s Prime Minister, Jens-Frederik Nielsen, also condemned Trump’s remarks, describing them as not only inaccurate but also disrespectful.
Trump recently appointed Louisiana Governor Jeff Landry as a special envoy to Greenland, a move that reignited criticism from Denmark and Greenland regarding Washington’s interest in the resource-rich Arctic region. The U.S. President has advocated for Greenland, a self-governing Danish territory, to become part of the United States, a sentiment supported by Landry.
Furthermore, a political adviser, Katie Miller, shared a map of Greenland adorned with the American flag on social media, hinting at future developments. The strategic location of Greenland and its mineral reserves have made it a focal point for the U.S., particularly in terms of missile defense and reducing reliance on Chinese trade.
Greenland, previously a Danish colony, holds the right to declare independence under a 2009 agreement but relies heavily on Danish financial support. Denmark has been working to strengthen relations with Greenland while also navigating diplomatic challenges with the Trump administration through investments in Arctic defense initiatives.