Denmark's Prime Minister Mette Frederiksen has demanded that the United States cease threats to annex Greenland, following provocative statements from President Trump and his adviser's wife. The remarks come amid heightened US interest in the Arctic territory's strategic value. Danish officials emphasized respect for territorial integrity while noting the strong alliance between the two nations.
Denmark has firmly defended its sovereignty over Greenland in response to recent US comments suggesting annexation. On Saturday, Katie Miller, wife of President Trump's deputy chief of staff Stephen Miller, shared an image on X showing the American flag superimposed over Greenland, captioned simply "SOON." This post appeared shortly after US military airstrikes in Venezuela's capital, where forces captured President Nicolás Maduro and his wife. Trump later stated at a press conference that the US would "run" Venezuela until a leadership transition occurs.
The following day, Sunday, Trump reiterated his interest in Greenland during an interview with The Atlantic, saying, "We do need Greenland, absolutely. We need it for defense." This echoes his long-standing desire to acquire the territory due to its key position in the Arctic. Last month, Trump appointed Louisiana Governor Jeff Landry as a special envoy to Greenland, a move that raised diplomatic eyebrows in Europe.
Prime Minister Mette Frederiksen issued a statement condemning the rhetoric, asserting that the US has "no right to annex" Danish territories and urging it to "stop the threats" regarding Greenland. Denmark summoned the US envoy over claims of interference. Ambassador Jesper Møller Sørensen responded to Miller's post, stating, "we expect full respect for the territorial integrity of the Kingdom of Denmark." He added, "Just a friendly reminder about the U.S. and the Kingdom of Denmark: We are close allies and should continue to work together as such."
Greenland has been under Danish control since the early 18th century and received home rule in 1979, underscoring its longstanding ties to Denmark amid ongoing discussions of autonomy.
