Greenland’s Prime Minister Jens-Frederik Nielsen has firmly rejected the United States’ pressure regarding troop deployments to the Danish territory. This response follows a recent announcement from the White House indicating plans to impose tariffs on nations sending military personnel to Greenland. In a statement on social media, Nielsen asserted, “Greenland is a democratic society with the right to make its own decisions.” He emphasized that the US threats, including potential tariffs, would not influence Greenland’s commitment to maintaining dialogue and respect for international law.
Nielsen expressed gratitude towards the thousands of individuals who participated in demonstrations supporting Greenland, both in the territory and in Denmark. He remarked, “The demonstrations here at home and in Denmark have shown a strong and dignified unity,” highlighting the peaceful expressions of patriotism and respect for democracy.
Brussels Meeting Highlights Danish Responsibility
A key diplomatic meeting is scheduled for Monday in Brussels, where Danish Foreign Minister Lars Lokke Rasmussen and Greenland’s Foreign Minister Vivian Motzfeldt will meet with NATO Secretary General Mark Rutte. Nielsen noted that this meeting underscores Denmark’s responsibility regarding Arctic security and reinforces the importance of engaging in discussions that respect Greenland’s role.
Tensions escalated further as US President Donald Trump threatened to impose tariffs on eight European nations, including Denmark, Germany, and the United Kingdom, that have announced troop deployments to Greenland. Trump indicated that these measures would remain until an agreement is reached for the “full and total purchase of Greenland” by the United States.
According to a report from Danish broadcaster TV2, the Danish Defence Ministry confirmed plans to send additional combat troops to Greenland, although the specific number remains undisclosed. This deployment includes a “considerable contribution” of troops expected to arrive at Kangerlussuaq, approximately 300 kilometers from Nuuk, the island’s capital. Major General Peter Boysen will accompany the troop dispatch.
In response to the escalating military presence, Danish Defence Minister Troels Lund Poulsen called for NATO to enhance its operations in the Arctic. He stated that Denmark and Greenland have garnered “broad support” for increasing NATO’s military footprint in the region, a sentiment echoed by Motzfeldt, who emphasized the need for strengthened cooperation on Arctic defense and security.
Norwegian Response to Trump’s Message
On Monday, the Norwegian government confirmed that Prime Minister Jonas Gahr Støre had received a message from Trump concerning Greenland. The message criticized Norway for not awarding Trump the Nobel Peace Prize and suggested a shift in focus towards US interests concerning Greenland. Støre indicated that he had not yet responded but remained open to dialogue, hoping for a conversation with Trump at the upcoming World Economic Forum in Davos.
US Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent defended Trump’s approach, characterizing Greenland as a strategic asset for the United States. He stated, “We are not going to outsource our hemispheric security to anyone else,” reinforcing the Trump administration’s stance on Arctic security.
As the situation develops, Greenland’s leadership remains steadfast in its commitment to sovereignty and diplomatic dialogue amid external pressures. The unfolding events underscore the complexities of international relations in the Arctic and the implications for regional security.
