The Danish government plans to summon the US ambassador for clarification regarding claims that US intelligence agencies are monitoring Greenland's independence movements and resource exploitation efforts.
Denmark Confronts US over Allegations of Espionage in Greenland
Denmark Confronts US over Allegations of Espionage in Greenland
Denmark's foreign minister expresses concern about American spying amid historical tensions over Greenland.
Denmark's foreign minister, Lars Løkke Rasmussen, announced plans to summon the US ambassador following a report detailing alleged American espionage activities focusing on Greenland. This comes amid heightened tensions following former President Donald Trump's controversial statements regarding the island, which has long been under Danish control.
In an article published by The Wall Street Journal, it was revealed that US spy agencies had been directed to pay attention to Greenland’s push for independence and the mineral resources that lie beneath its soil. The report prompted Rasmussen to express his unease, stating, "It worries me greatly because we do not spy on friends."
While Director of National Intelligence Tulsi Gabbard did not outright deny the report, she referred to it as an attempt to politicize and undermine the former President, calling out the Journal for allegedly leaking classified information. She emphasized that such actions could jeopardize national security and democracy.
During a meeting with EU ministers in Warsaw, Rasmussen noted his concern over the report's implications and confirmed that discussions would take place with the US acting ambassador at the Danish foreign ministry to clarify the situation. "That worries me; it doesn't seem to be strongly rejected by those who speak out," he said.
The Danish Security and Intelligence Service (PET) remained silent on the details but acknowledged an increase in threats of espionage in light of rising international interests in Greenland.
Trump's longstanding interest in acquiring Greenland, stating that he requires the island for "international security," has further strained relations. He famously suggested using military force to take control of it. His administration's approach has faced backlash, with Danish officials, including Prime Minister Mette Frederiksen, criticizing any US pressure on Greenland's political landscape.
As Biden commented post-presidency, he condemned the rhetoric of seizing territory, reflecting a broader concern regarding the US's identity and values. Despite polls indicating a strong desire among Greenlanders for independence from Danish rule, there is little appetite for joining the United States, complicating the transatlantic dynamics further.
Since it has governed Greenland for approximately 300 years, Denmark remains protective of its interests, even as it navigates the implications of global power plays in the Arctic region.
In an article published by The Wall Street Journal, it was revealed that US spy agencies had been directed to pay attention to Greenland’s push for independence and the mineral resources that lie beneath its soil. The report prompted Rasmussen to express his unease, stating, "It worries me greatly because we do not spy on friends."
While Director of National Intelligence Tulsi Gabbard did not outright deny the report, she referred to it as an attempt to politicize and undermine the former President, calling out the Journal for allegedly leaking classified information. She emphasized that such actions could jeopardize national security and democracy.
During a meeting with EU ministers in Warsaw, Rasmussen noted his concern over the report's implications and confirmed that discussions would take place with the US acting ambassador at the Danish foreign ministry to clarify the situation. "That worries me; it doesn't seem to be strongly rejected by those who speak out," he said.
The Danish Security and Intelligence Service (PET) remained silent on the details but acknowledged an increase in threats of espionage in light of rising international interests in Greenland.
Trump's longstanding interest in acquiring Greenland, stating that he requires the island for "international security," has further strained relations. He famously suggested using military force to take control of it. His administration's approach has faced backlash, with Danish officials, including Prime Minister Mette Frederiksen, criticizing any US pressure on Greenland's political landscape.
As Biden commented post-presidency, he condemned the rhetoric of seizing territory, reflecting a broader concern regarding the US's identity and values. Despite polls indicating a strong desire among Greenlanders for independence from Danish rule, there is little appetite for joining the United States, complicating the transatlantic dynamics further.
Since it has governed Greenland for approximately 300 years, Denmark remains protective of its interests, even as it navigates the implications of global power plays in the Arctic region.
