Danish Prime Minister Mette Frederiksen has declared that her nation faces a 'decisive moment' in its diplomatic stance following renewed threats from former U.S. President Donald Trump regarding the sovereignty of Greenland.
A Firm Stance on Arctic Sovereignty
Speaking on Sunday, January 11, 2026, ahead of critical meetings in Washington on global raw materials, Frederiksen emphasized the gravity of the situation. She stated there is an active 'conflict over Greenland' and that the stakes extend far beyond the immediate territory, impacting global norms. In a debate with other Danish political leaders, she framed the moment as pivotal.
Frederiksen reinforced Denmark's position in a Facebook post, writing, 'We are ready to defend our values — wherever it is necessary — also in the Arctic. We believe in international law and in peoples’ right to self-determination.' This statement directly challenges Trump's recent repetition of his intent to act on Greenland, 'whether they like it or not.'
European Allies Rally Behind Denmark
The Danish leader's firm stance has garnered swift support from key European partners. Swedish Prime Minister Ulf Kristersson condemned what he called U.S. 'threatening rhetoric,' warning that a forced takeover of the mineral-rich, self-governing Danish territory would be a clear violation of international law.
'Sweden, the Nordic countries, the Baltic states, and several major European countries stand together with our Danish friends,' Kristersson asserted at a defence conference in Salen. He cautioned that such actions risk encouraging other nations to follow suit, destabilizing global order.
Germany also reiterated its unwavering support. Ahead of talks with U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio, German Foreign Minister Johann Wadehpul stated plainly to Bild daily, 'It is clear that it is exclusively up to Greenland and Denmark to decide questions of Greenland’s territory and sovereignty.' He emphasized that NATO security in the Arctic must be collaborative, not confrontational.
Washington Talks Amidst Rising Tensions
The diplomatic row escalates as global leaders prepare for meetings in Washington, D.C., focused on the scramble for critical raw materials. German Finance Minister Lars Klingbeil highlighted the need for allied cooperation just before the international meeting.
The European response was coordinated after the White House, under Trump, reiterated its desire to purchase Greenland and refused to rule out military action. In a significant show of unity, leaders from seven European nations—including France, Britain, Germany, and Italy—signed a joint letter affirming that Greenland's future 'is only for Denmark and Greenland to decide.'
As the world watches, the Arctic has become a flashpoint not just for resources, but for the fundamental principles of sovereignty and international law. Prime Minister Frederiksen's declaration marks a clear line in the ice, setting the stage for a high-stakes diplomatic confrontation.
