Prime Minister Mette Frederiksen of Denmark expresses unwavering support for Greenland's autonomy during a visit, rejecting past US annexation threats. Her message comes after a contentious US delegation visit, highlighting a commitment to security and unity.
Denmark and Greenland Stand Firm Against US Territorial Aspirations
Denmark and Greenland Stand Firm Against US Territorial Aspirations
Danish and Greenlandic leaders reinforce their sovereignty amidst US interest in Greenland, emphasizing collaboration over annexation.
Denmark's Prime Minister Mette Frederiksen has asserted that her country will not concede Greenland to the United States, in response to former President Donald Trump's aspirations to annex the territory. During her official visit to Greenland, Frederiksen emphasized collaboration with Prime Minister Jens-Frederik Nielsen and his predecessor Mute Egede, showcasing a united front against US pressures on sovereignty.
Frederiksen’s remarks come following Vice President JD Vance’s recent visit to Greenland, where he reiterated Trump’s proposals for increasing US control of the island, citing security reasons. The Danish Prime Minister's statements, made during her three-day trip, sought to address the implications of such threats, noting, "You can't annex other countries."
In her visit, Frederiksen highlighted Denmark's commitment to fortifying its military presence in the Arctic while opening avenues for enhanced cooperation with the US on regional security. However, she expressed concerns regarding the implications of US demands for territorial takeover, questioning the reliability of a longtime ally. While Frederiksen drew cheers from local residents during a boat tour in Nuuk, Egede insisted that although Greenland welcomes trade with the US, the island is "not for sale."
The issue of Greenland's independence and its future has gained traction, especially as Trump has reignited interest in the island since his first term. Greenland—governed by Denmark for approximately three centuries—holds self-governing powers over domestic matters, but defense and foreign policies are determined by Copenhagen. Recent political movements within Greenland indicate a strong desire for independence from Denmark, although there is notable resistance to aligning with the US.
Despite continuous discussions surrounding independence, polls suggest a significant portion of Greenland's population desires self-governance while remaining independent from American control. Political leaders and analysts echo the sentiment that the leaders’ unified stance reassures Greenlanders amid external pressures regarding their national identity and territorial integrity.
