Greenland Not for Sale, but Denmark Open to Increased US Troop Presence “`

On Monday, Danish Prime Minister Mette Frederiksen reiterated Denmark’s unwavering stance that Greenland is not for sale, while expressing openness to expanding the U.S. military presence on the Arctic island.

Responding to President Trump’s suggestion of acquiring Greenland through military or economic means, Frederiksen emphasized that Greenland, a self-governing territory of Denmark, is an integral part of Danish territory and its sovereignty must be respected by all nations. She underscored Greenland’s own government’s clear position on this matter.

Frederiksen indicated Denmark’s willingness to support an increased U.S. military presence in Greenland, where the U.S. Space Force already operates a base. She highlighted the growing strategic importance of the Arctic region, citing increased activity from China and Russia, and suggested that enhanced U.S. presence in Greenland could contribute to regional defense and security, aligning with Danish, NATO, and U.S. interests.

Frederiksen also addressed Trump’s threat of imposing tariffs on EU imports, stating that the EU would maintain unity and seek a collective response if necessary, while emphasizing the importance of avoiding conflict among allies.

Last week, her government announced a significant defense investment plan, including new naval vessels, drones, and satellite capacity, to bolster surveillance and sovereignty in the Arctic region. This plan involves collaboration with Greenland and the Faeroe Islands.

European Council President Antonio Costa affirmed the EU’s commitment to upholding the territorial integrity of its member states, echoing the stance on Greenland.

Trump has previously stated that U.S. control of Greenland, and the Panama Canal, is crucial for national security. While Secretary of State Marco Rubio visited Panama this week, Panamanian President José Raúl Mulino reaffirmed his country’s Belt and Road agreement with China. Trump had previously expressed concern about China’s growing influence over the Panama Canal.

Frederiksen also responded to Vice President JD Vance’s recent criticism of Denmark’s role as a U.S. ally, and his assertion that Denmark is not adequately addressing the growing importance of Greenland for U.S. national security. Vance suggested that the U.S. might need to assert greater control over Greenland to safeguard its interests, emphasizing that the U.S. prioritizes its citizens’ interests.

Frederiksen firmly rejected Vance’s assessment, stating that Denmark has been a strong and reliable U.S. ally for decades, and that Arctic cooperation is a priority aligned with Danish, U.S., and NATO interests. She underscored the importance of continued cooperation on issues such as counter-terrorism and maintaining stability in the Baltic Sea region.

Donald Trump Jr. visited Greenland’s capital, Nuuk, to meet with local residents last month.

Trump’s 10% tariffs on Chinese imports into the U.S. took effect this week, aimed at addressing the fentanyl crisis. He agreed to temporarily suspend tariffs on imports from Canada and Mexico after both countries agreed to increase border security measures.

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