Denmark and Greenland Maintain Openness to Arctic Security Dialogue, Emphasize Sovereignty
Danish Prime Minister Mette Frederiksen stated on Thursday that Denmark and Greenland are prepared to engage in constructive discussions on Arctic security matters, but only under the condition that such dialogues fully respect her country's territorial integrity. This declaration comes in the wake of recent comments from U.S. President Donald Trump regarding the semi-autonomous Danish territory.
U.S. President Walks Back Threats, Suggests Progress on Greenland Dispute
On Wednesday, at the World Economic Forum in Davos, President Trump moderated his previous threats to impose tariffs on European nations that opposed his interest in acquiring Greenland. He explicitly ruled out the use of military force and indicated that advancements had been made toward resolving the longstanding dispute over Greenland. Following a meeting with NATO Secretary General Mark Rutte, Trump proposed that Western Arctic allies could potentially reach an agreement that addresses his objectives for a missile-defense system, referred to as the "Golden Dome," and secures access to valuable mineral resources, while simultaneously countering what he describes as the ambitions of Russia and China in the region.
Arctic Security: A Collective NATO Responsibility
Prime Minister Frederiksen emphasized that NATO is fully cognizant of Denmark's stance on this issue. She confirmed that she had received assurances that Secretary General Rutte's discussions with President Trump did not involve matters pertaining to Danish sovereignty. "Security in the Arctic is a matter for the entire NATO alliance. Therefore, it is good and natural that it is also discussed between NATO’s secretary general and the president of the United States," Frederiksen articulated in an official statement.
"The Kingdom of Denmark wishes to continue to engage in a constructive dialogue with allies on how we can strengthen security in the Arctic, including the United States’ Golden Dome, provided that this is done with respect for our territorial integrity," she further elaborated, underscoring the non-negotiable principle of sovereignty.
Historical Context: U.S. Military Presence in Greenland
The United States maintained a significant military force in Greenland during the Cold War era, with thousands of troops stationed on the resource-rich island. However, over recent decades, this presence has been substantially reduced. Greenland, which is part of NATO through Denmark's membership in the alliance, hosts a permanent U.S. military presence at the Pituffik air base in its northwest region. This arrangement is governed by a 1951 agreement that permits the U.S. to construct bases, provided Denmark and Greenland are duly notified.
Greenland's Autonomy and Decision-Making Authority
Greenland enjoys extensive autonomy from Denmark, although foreign affairs and defense matters are typically excluded unless specific agreements are reached. Since 2009, the island has possessed the legal right to declare independence, contingent upon holding a referendum and obtaining approval from the Danish parliament. Frederiksen reinforced this point, stating, "... it is of course only Denmark and Greenland itself that can strike agreements regarding questions concerning Denmark and Greenland."
Aaja Chemnitz, a Greenlandic representative in the Danish parliament, echoed this sentiment, asserting that no decisions can be made without the active participation of Greenland. "NATO in no way has a sole mandate to negotiate anything without us from Greenland," she declared, highlighting the essential role of local governance in any future negotiations concerning the territory.
