Denmark Raises Alarm Over US Spy Activities in Greenland

Denmark's foreign minister has voiced serious concerns regarding US espionage activities directed at Greenland, particularly in light of President Trump's provocative comments about the island's strategic importance. The Danish government seeks clarification from the US ambassador amid rising unease over the implications for Greenland's autonomy and ongoing independence movements.

In a significant diplomatic reaction, Denmark's foreign minister, Lars Løkke Rasmussen, has announced plans to summon the US ambassador following a report indicating that American intelligence agencies have been directed to focus on Greenland. This comes in a context marked by former President Donald Trump's controversial aspirations regarding the island's strategic resources and self-governance.

The alarming report, published by The Wall Street Journal, suggests that US intelligence has been instructed to monitor the semi-autonomous territory's independence efforts and its rich mineral resources—heightening concerns within Denmark about the potential for espionage among allies. "It worries me greatly because we do not spy on friends," Rasmussen stated, emphasizing the unusual nature of such activities directed towards a close ally like Denmark.

In the aftermath of the report, Tulsi Gabbard, the US Director of National Intelligence, criticized the Wall Street Journal for allegedly politicizing the information and leaking classified material, which she claimed was detrimental to national security. However, she did not outright deny the report's contents. "Breaking the law and undermining our nation's security and democracy" was her strong assertion against the media outlet.

While attending a meeting of EU ministers in Warsaw, Rasmussen expressed his concern about the implications of the allegations. "We are going to call in the US acting ambassador for a discussion at the foreign ministry to see if we can confirm this information," he declared, signaling the seriousness with which Denmark is treating the matter. Despite the absence of comments from the Danish Security and Intelligence Service (PET) regarding espionage, the agency acknowledged awareness of increased US interest in Greenland.

Trump's past statements about Greenland have fueled tensions, including comments suggesting potential military action to secure control over the island. "I don't say I'm going to do it, but I don't rule out anything," Trump remarked, reinforcing his administration's strategic focus on Greenland's geopolitical significance and rare earth minerals.

The issue has drawn criticisms from across the political spectrum, including former President Joe Biden, who has referred to Trump's rhetoric around territorial claims as unbecoming for American values. "We're about freedom, democracy, opportunity, not about confiscation," Biden lamented during an interview.

Greenland, controlled by Denmark for three centuries, has aspirations for greater independence, with polls indicating that a majority of its residents prefer separating from Denmark rather than entering US jurisdiction. As Denmark seeks to address these complex dynamics with the US, the future of Greenland’s governance and the implications of foreign interests remain a critical area of concern.