Denmark and the United States remain locked in a fundamental disagreement over Greenland following high-level talks in Washington on Wednesday. Danish foreign minister Lars Lokke Rasmussen described discussions with US officials as frank and constructive but acknowledged that the two sides still hold differing views on Greenland’s long-term security.
He said Denmark had made clear its opposition to President Donald Trump’s stated desire to take control of the island, which Trump argues is vital for US national security due to its strategic location and resources.
Trump reiterated that view after the meeting, claiming Denmark could not defend Greenland alone against potential Russian or Chinese threats. The issue has alarmed European nations, particularly after recent US military actions elsewhere. In response, Denmark announced an increased military presence and exercises in and around Greenland in cooperation with NATO allies.
Sweden has already sent officers to the island, while Germany and Norway are also planning limited deployments. Despite the tensions, Denmark said it is willing to continue dialogue through a new high-level working group aimed at addressing US security concerns while respecting Danish sovereignty.
Danish foreign minister Lars Lokke Rasmussen (L) and Greenland’s foreign minister Vivian Motzfeldt speak at a press conference following their meeting with US vice president JD Vance and secretary of state Marco Rubio.
Danish foreign minister Lars Lokke Rasmussen (L) and Greenland’s foreign minister Vivian Motzfeldt
PLEASE SUBSCRIBE TO OUR FREE DAILY NEWSLETTER: If you would like to support our independent journalism at Good Morning World, please subscribe to our daily newsletter. It’s FREE and appears 7 mornings a week. As we prepare to install a fully-automated sign-up, in the meantime please send an email with the word SUBSCRIBE to ianrbrodie@gmail.com