Denmark plans to increase its military presence in Greenland, highlighting its strong alliance with the US.
President Trump has dismissed Denmark’s ability to protect Greenland, a strategically vital territory, seemingly mocking its planned military expansion in the Arctic. He previously proposed buying Greenland, an idea he resurrected after his recent reelection. Trump views Greenland as crucial to US national security and hasn’t ruled out using force to acquire it.
Denmark has steadfastly rejected any sale of Greenland.
Speaking aboard Air Force One, Trump asserted that acquiring Greenland is essential for global freedom, claiming only the US can ensure this, unlike Denmark, whose recent addition of two dog sled patrols to its military presence he described as inadequate.
Trump’s remarks alluded to Denmark’s recent announcement of increased military assets in Greenland, including inspection vessels, drones, and the aforementioned dog sled patrols, augmenting its existing personnel and equipment.
Trump questioned Denmark’s claim to Greenland and implied that preventing a US acquisition would be unfriendly, further alleging that the Greenlandic people desire closer ties with the US.
Danish Prime Minister Mette Frederiksen, in response, underscored Denmark’s strong and longstanding alliance with the US, citing its participation in NATO and US-led military operations. She reiterated Greenland’s non-negotiable status and the Greenlandic people’s right to self-determination.
A recent Financial Times report, citing European officials, described a tense phone call between Trump and Frederiksen earlier this month. Trump reportedly pressed his case for purchasing Greenland, even threatening tariffs if Denmark refused. This forceful approach reportedly alarmed Danish officials, confirming the seriousness of Trump’s intentions.