Denmark and Greenland Stand Firm Against U.S. 'Annexation' Pressures

Danish Prime Minister Mette Frederiksen emphasizes unity in the face of U.S. threats during her visit to Greenland, showcasing solidarity from local leaders against allegations of potential annexation.

In a bold statement against U.S. ambitions for Greenland, Danish Prime Minister Mette Frederiksen declared during her official visit to the Arctic territory that Denmark will not surrender Greenland to the United States. This declaration was made in response to repeated annexation threats put forth by former President Donald Trump, who previously suggested the purchase of the island. Frederiksen voiced her commitment to closer security collaboration but firmly stated, "You can't annex other countries."

Accompanied by Greenland's outgoing Prime Minister Mute Egede and newly elected Prime Minister Jens-Frederik Nielsen, Frederiksen's three-day tour serves as a show of support and solidarity in light of recent U.S. diplomatic activities that have rattled the region. Her remarks follow a controversial visit from a U.S. delegation led by Vice President JD Vance, who reiterated Trump's interest in Greenland for strategic security purposes, while criticizing Denmark's defense spending.

Upon her arrival, Frederiksen emphasized the necessity for unity in response to U.S. pressure on Greenland's sovereignty and future. She underscored Denmark's intent to enhance its military presence in the Arctic region and foster better collaborative defense initiatives with the U.S. Nevertheless, she questioned the motivations behind such demands from a nation Denmark has long admired, stating, "When you demand to take over a part of... Denmark's territory… what are we to believe in about our closest ally?"

The Danish leader also connected with the local populace during her visit, receiving cheers from residents as she toured Nuuk aboard a Danish navy patrol boat. Mute Egede, who has served as prime minister for nearly four years, highlighted the long-standing cooperation between Greenland and the U.S. on security matters while reiterating the island's stance: Greenland is not for sale.

Since former President Trump first toyed with the idea of acquiring Greenland, the island, which has been under Danish control for approximately 300 years, has sought to assert its identity and autonomy. Greenland exercises self-governance over domestic matters, while foreign and defense policies are still largely dictated from Copenhagen.

Polls indicate a significant portion of Greenland's inhabitants favor independence from Denmark, yet most do not wish to fall under U.S. governance. The newly formed coalition government in Greenland has shown support for the continuation of its gradual approach to independence, while many political factions are pushing for a referendum to assess the island's future.