Greenland Showdown at Decisive moment says Denmark PM

Denmark is ready to defend its values, Mette Frederiksen says, as Trump renews threats to seize the Danish territory.

Danish Prime Minister Mette Frederiksen has pointed out that Denmark is at a “decisive moment” regarding Greenland’s future after President Trump revived his aggressive talk about taking over the Arctic territory. 

Ahead of some meetings in Washington, DC, concerning the race for important resources, Frederiksen mentioned that there’s definitely a conflict brewing over Greenland. She emphasized that this moment is crucial and goes beyond just the matter of Greenland itself.

Frederiksen made it clear on Facebook that Denmark is “ready to defend our values—wherever it is necessary  – also in the Arctic”. She stressed their commitment to international law and the right of people to self-determination. Germany and Sweden have also backed Denmark against Trump’s recent claims about the self-governing territory.

Swedish Prime Minister Ulf Kristersson condemned the “threatening rhetoric” from the US after Trump made it clear that Washington was going to act regarding Greenland, “whether they like it or not.” He mentioned that Sweden, along with the Nordic and Baltic countries, stands united with Denmark. Kristersson labeled any American takeover of Greenland as “a violation of international law” and warned that it could encourage other nations to follow suit.

Germany echoed its support for Denmark and Greenland prior to the discussions in Washington. Before his meeting with US counterpart Marco Rubio, German Foreign Minister Johann Wadehpul discussed the strategic issues in the Far North during talks in Iceland. He pointed out how vital security in the Arctic is becoming and that it aligns with NATO’s interests.

Belgian Defence Minister Theo Francken suggested that NATO should kick off an operation in the Arctic to tackle US security worries. He believes it’s essential to collaborate and show strength and unity, proposing models like NATO’s Baltic Sentry and Eastern Sentry operations for a new “Arctic Sentry.” Trump argues that controlling Greenland is vital for US national security. 

Greenland, which was a Danish colony until 1953, got home rule in 1979 and is considering loosening its ties with Denmark, but polls show that people in Greenland are strongly against a US takeover.