Denmark Stands Firm: PM Mette Frederiksen Rejects US Attempt to Annex Greenland

In a bold and resolute stance, Danish Prime Minister Mette Frederiksen has publicly rejected what she described as an attempted annexation of Greenland by the United States, calling it a violation of international law and a troubling display of power politics. Speaking from Nuuk, the capital of Greenland, during a joint press conference with Greenlandic officials, Frederiksen addressed growing concerns over U.S. interest in acquiring the Arctic territory.

"You cannot annex other countries -- not even under the pretext of international security," said Frederiksen, emphasizing the core principles of sovereignty, territorial integrity, and national borders. "These principles were established after World War II so that small countries would not have to fear large ones."

The Danish leader’s remarks come in response to increasing political pressure from Washington, led by President Donald Trump and Vice President JD Vance. This renewed interest in Greenland echoes Trump’s earlier proposal in 2019 to purchase the territory, a suggestion that was then widely dismissed by Danish officials as “absurd.”

However, the situation has now escalated beyond rhetorical interest. Frederiksen revealed that Denmark and Greenland have been subjected to direct threats and pressure, suggesting that the U.S. is attempting to use diplomatic coercion to further its Arctic ambitions.

“When we are subjected to pressure and threats by our closest ally, what are we to think about the country we have admired for so many years?” she asked, visibly troubled by the tone of recent U.S. communications.

The tension arises amid strategic interests in the Arctic, particularly at the Pituffik Space Base in northwest Greenland, formerly known as Thule Air Base. Just days before Frederiksen’s visit, U.S. Vice President JD Vance led a delegation to the base, where he sharply criticized Denmark for what he called a lack of investment in Arctic security and insufficient care for Greenlandic well-being.

In a surprising twist that further complicates the political landscape, Greenland announced the formation of a new autonomous government just hours before the U.S. visit. A coalition of four political parties, commanding 23 of the 31 seats in Greenland’s parliament, has formed a government with Jens-Frederik Nielsen of the Democratic Party as its new Prime Minister.

Despite U.S. criticism and pressure, outgoing Greenlandic Prime Minister Mute Egede expressed support for Frederiksen’s strong defense of the territory’s sovereignty. Egede, who appeared alongside Frederiksen and Nielsen, praised the improved cooperation between Greenland and Denmark, asserting that the two governments must work together to protect their shared interests and values.

“Today’s global situation obliges us to work together,” said Egede. “Good friends and allies must stand together to defend the values we have long shared in the Western world.”

While Frederiksen’s tone was firm, she left the door open for future engagement with the United States, stating that she remains open to dialogue with President Trump and his administration. Her visit to Greenland, which concludes on Friday, is seen as a critical move to reaffirm Denmark’s commitment to protecting Greenland’s autonomy and to counter what many view as a geopolitical overreach by Washington.

Greenland, which was a Danish colony until 1953, has undergone several phases of autonomy. It was granted home rule in 1979, and in 2009, further expanded its self-government capabilities, though Denmark still oversees foreign affairs and defense.

The strategic importance of Greenland has long made it a focal point in international politics, particularly due to its location and natural resources. As climate change opens up new Arctic sea routes and potential mining opportunities, global powers including the U.S., Russia, and China have turned increased attention to the region.

Denmark’s rejection of U.S. annexation ambitions underscores a growing divide between Western allies on how to approach Arctic policy. While the U.S. frames its interest in Greenland through the lens of national security and economic strategy, Denmark and Greenland view any attempt to change territorial status as a breach of international law and a threat to self-determination.

In the coming weeks, diplomatic channels between Denmark, Greenland, and the U.S. will likely be tested. As Frederiksen returns to Copenhagen, her message is clear: sovereignty is not for sale, and even the closest allies must respect the rule of law.

The situation continues to evolve, but one thing is certain — Denmark has drawn a firm red line around Greenland, and the world is watching how the United States responds.