Denmark is standing at a “historic crossroads” over the future of Greenland as geopolitical tensions escalate in the Arctic, Prime Minister Mette Frederiksen has said, following renewed threats by US President Donald Trump to take control of the resource-rich island.
Speaking during a debate with Danish political leaders, Frederiksen said the current moment demands critical decision-making whose consequences extend far beyond Greenland alone. “This is a moment of decision. The importance of the choices made now is not limited only to Greenland’s future,” she said.
In a later post on Facebook, the Danish prime minister reaffirmed her government’s commitment to core principles, stating that Denmark is prepared to defend its values anywhere, including the polar regions. “We respect international law and the right of peoples to self-determination,” she wrote.
Trump has repeatedly argued that US control of Greenland is essential for American national security, particularly in light of growing Russian and Chinese activities in the Arctic and Greenland’s vast mineral resources. His latest remarks have sparked sharp reactions across Europe and beyond.
Swedish Prime Minister Ulf Kristersson strongly condemned the idea of a US takeover, warning that such a move would violate international law and could encourage other countries to pursue territorial expansion. Expressing solidarity with Denmark, he said Nordic countries, Baltic states and several major European nations stand firmly with Copenhagen.
Germany has also reiterated its support for Denmark ahead of global discussions on critical raw materials in Washington. During a meeting in Iceland, German Foreign Minister Johann Wadephul described Arctic security as a NATO priority. Meanwhile, Belgian Defence Minister Theo Francken has proposed a new NATO-led “Arctic Sentry” mission, modeled on existing operations in the Baltic and Eastern Europe, to counter Russian and Chinese influence and address US security concerns.
Reports suggest that military leaders from several European countries, including the United Kingdom, are discussing possible deployments of NATO troops, warships and aircraft to Greenland to deter perceived threats. UK Transport Secretary Heidi Alexander described such talks as a normal response to growing competition and security risks in the increasingly strategic Arctic region.
Greenland, a former Danish colony until 1953, gained home rule in 1979 and has since expanded its autonomy. The island is now debating the possibility of greater independence from Denmark. Recent opinion polls indicate strong opposition among Greenlanders to any plan involving US control of the territory.
As global powers intensify their focus on the Arctic, Denmark and Greenland now face decisions that could reshape regional security, international law, and the balance of power in one of the world’s most strategically sensitive regions.
