The article centers on the escalating tensions between the United States and Denmark regarding Greenland's status. The US, under the Trump administration, has expressed interest in Greenland's independence, suggesting a potential alliance. In contrast, Denmark strongly defends Greenland's sovereignty, emphasizing international law and rejecting any annexation attempts. Statements from US Secretary of State Marco Rubio and Danish Prime Minister Mette Frederiksen highlight their opposing viewpoints.
US officials, including Rubio and Vice President J.D. Vance, have claimed that Greenlandic people desire independence and that the US aims to prevent other powers, specifically China, from gaining influence in the region. These claims are disputed by Denmark.
Denmark underscores the importance of respecting national borders, state sovereignty, and territorial integrity as enshrined in international law since World War II. The Danish government views the US actions as a violation of these principles and expresses disappointment in the US's actions.
The article emphasizes Greenland's strategic geopolitical importance due to its rich natural resources and the opening of new sea routes resulting from climate change. This makes Greenland a target of interest for major global powers, including the US, Russia, and China.
While the Greenland issue caused concern among European allies, NATO's official response was cautious. The Secretary-General, Mark Rutte, urged a focus on broader Arctic security threats rather than directly addressing the US-Denmark dispute.