BRUSSELS — On Monday, Denmark’s Prime Minister emphasized that Greenland is not for sale, urging a strong and unified response from her European Union counterparts in the event that U.S. President Donald Trump attempts to assert control over the territory.
Prime Minister Mette Frederiksen made clear her stance while speaking to reporters in Brussels during a gathering of EU leaders focusing on defense issues. She remarked, “While I will never advocate for conflicting with allies, it is essential that if the U.S. imposes strict conditions on Europe, we must respond collectively and decisively.”
The autonomous territory of Greenland, which hosts a significant U.S. military installation, is part of Denmark, a long-standing ally of the United States. Recently, Trump hinted at the potential use of American armed forces to ensure U.S. interests in Greenland, along with strategic locations such as the Panama Canal, asserting, “We need Greenland for national security purposes.”
Frederiksen expressed her strong support from fellow EU nations regarding the need to honor the sovereignty of all countries, stating, “Everyone should respect that Greenland is part of the Kingdom of Denmark. It is our territory, and it’s not for sale.” Furthermore, she acknowledged American worries regarding security challenges in the Arctic, which has seen increased activity from Russia and China.
The Prime Minister concurred with the United States that the Arctic region is gaining significance in discussions surrounding defense and security. She noted that both the U.S. and Denmark could enhance their security presence in Greenland, emphasizing, “They are already established there and have opportunities for expansion.” She also pointed out that Denmark is prepared to bolster its own security capabilities in the region, asserting that there is a feasible path forward to secure their interests.
Just last week, her administration proclaimed an agreement valued at approximately 14.6 billion kroner (nearly $2 billion) alongside Greenland and the Faeroe Islands. This deal aims to enhance surveillance abilities and uphold sovereignty in the Arctic, according to the Danish Defense Ministry. The agreement includes the acquisition of three new Arctic naval vessels, the addition of two advanced long-range surveillance drones, and enhanced satellite capabilities.
Frederiksen’s comments coincide with an EU leaders’ summit, though there remains uncertainty regarding Trump’s intentions in addressing the ongoing war in Ukraine. European leaders are concerned that a rushed agreement could disadvantage Ukraine’s position.
The gathering was set to include U.K. Prime Minister Keir Starmer and NATO Secretary-General Mark Rutte, as part of a retreat in Brussels designed to address EU-U.S. collaboration, military expenditures, and strengthening Europe’s defense sector.
As the war in Ukraine nears its third year—the most significant land conflict in Europe since World War II—concerns regarding Trump’s reliability as an ally are mounting, especially following his previous imposition of tariffs on European steel and aluminum.
“We are listening closely to these remarks, and naturally, we are also preparing on our end,” stated Kaja Kallas, the EU’s foreign policy chief. She cautioned, however, that “trade wars yield no victors. If the U.S. initiates such a conflict, it would be China that ultimately benefits. Our economies are deeply interconnected.”
