Danish Prime Minister Mette Frederiksen declared on Wednesday that Denmark is 'ready to defend' Greenland, responding to renewed demands from US President Donald Trump to purchase the Arctic territory. The statement came during a one-day NATO summit in Turkey, where Trump's push for Greenland acquisition has overshadowed discussions on the Ukraine war and defense spending.
Trump's Greenland Demands Disrupt Summit Agenda
According to The Associated Press, Trump raised the issue of buying Greenland in bilateral talks with Frederiksen on the sidelines of the summit, repeating a proposal first made in 2019 that was firmly rejected. The US president reportedly insisted that Greenland's strategic location and natural resources make it vital for American national security. 'We are ready to defend our sovereignty,' Frederiksen told reporters after the meeting. 'Greenland is not for sale, and Denmark will protect its territory.'
The summit, originally focused on NATO's response to Russia's war in Ukraine and member states' defense spending commitments, has been upended by Trump's demands. European allies expressed concern that the dispute could weaken alliance unity. 'This is not helpful when we need to present a united front against Russian aggression,' said a senior European diplomat who spoke on condition of anonymity.
NATO Allies React to Tensions
NATO Secretary General Jens Stoltenberg attempted to steer the summit back to core issues, urging members to focus on collective defense. However, Trump's Greenland gambit has dominated headlines and private discussions. Canadian Prime Minister Mark Carney, attending his first NATO summit, declined to comment directly but emphasized the importance of respecting territorial integrity. 'Allies must respect each other's borders,' Carney said.
The United States maintains a military base in Greenland, Thule Air Base, which is critical for missile warning and space surveillance. Trump has long coveted the island for its mineral wealth and strategic position as Arctic ice melts open new shipping routes. Denmark granted Greenland self-rule in 2009 but retains control over foreign affairs and defense.
Impact on Defense Spending and Ukraine Aid
The Greenland controversy has delayed progress on key summit deliverables, including a pledge to increase defense spending to 3% of GDP by 2030. Several NATO members, including Germany and France, expressed frustration that Trump's unilateral focus undermines collective efforts. 'We came here to support Ukraine and strengthen our defenses, not to discuss territorial purchases,' said a French official.
Ukraine President Volodymyr Zelenskyy, who addressed the summit via video link, urged allies to maintain focus on providing military aid. 'Russia watches every division among us,' Zelenskyy said. 'We cannot afford distraction.'
The summit continues Thursday with discussions on burden-sharing and NATO's future role in the Indo-Pacific. Trump is scheduled to meet with Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan before departing.
