Danish PM slams US pressure over Greenland, defends sovereignty, unity

Danish Prime Minister Mette Frederiksen has firmly rejected mounting pressure from the United States to assert greater control over Greenland, warning that the island's right to self-determination is now at risk.

In a pointed National Day address on June 5, Frederiksen underscored that Denmark would not submit to external demands that challenge its sovereignty or that of its semi-autonomous Arctic territory, Caliber.Az reports, citing foreign media.

"The world order we've built through generations is being challenged like never before," Frederiksen stated. "In recent months Greenland and Denmark have been subjected to unacceptable pressure from our closest ally," she added, directly referencing the United States.

The tension follows comments by President Donald Trump, who reiterated his ambition to bring Greenland under US control, citing its mineral wealth and strategic location in the Arctic. Trump has described the move as essential for national and international security and has not ruled out the use of force.

US Vice President JD Vance further inflamed the issue during a March visit to Greenland, accusing Denmark—America’s NATO ally—of failing to adequately safeguard the territory. He asserted that the United States could offer stronger protection for the island.

Vance’s visit came on the heels of electoral gains by Greenland's Demokraatit party, which advocates for a gradual path to independence, a more moderate stance compared to other local political factions pushing for faster secession.

Frederiksen reaffirmed that the future of Greenland lies solely in the hands of its people, in accordance with Denmark’s constitution, which permits the island to pursue independence if it chooses. “Fundamental principles in the transatlantic relationship such as national sovereignty, the respect for borders and people's right to self-determination are now at stake,” she said. “But we don't bend. We Danes are not like that.”

In a display of solidarity, Denmark’s King Frederik visited Greenland in April, reinforcing unity amid rising diplomatic tensions with Washington. The monarch remains a respected figure in the region.

Under a 1951 agreement, the US retains the right to construct military bases in Greenland, provided Denmark and Greenland are informed. While the island holds vast reserves of minerals, oil, and natural gas, development has been sluggish, and American investment in its mining sector has remained minimal. Nuuk, Greenland’s capital, lies geographically closer to New York than to Copenhagen, amplifying its strategic significance.

By Vafa Guliyeva