Danish and Greenlandic PMs Call for Respect for Territorial Integrity Amid US Tensions

Danish Prime Minister Mette Frederiksen and Greenlandic Prime Minister Jens-Frederik Nielsen emphasized the importance of “respect” for the Kingdom of Denmark’s territorial integrity in response to recent developments involving the US.
In a joint statement, the leaders reiterated that attempts to annex other countries, even under the guise of international security, are unacceptable. They specifically highlighted Greenland’s status as belonging to its people and urged the US to uphold their shared territorial integrity.
The statement follows US President Donald Trump’s appointment of Louisiana Governor Jeff Landry as a special envoy to Greenland, a move that has reignited diplomatic tensions between Washington and the Danish Realm.
Trump, in a social media post on “Truth Social,” praised Landry’s understanding of Greenland’s significance to US national security and his commitment to advancing American interests for the safety and security of allies.
In response, Danish Foreign Minister Lars Lokke Rasmussen expressed dismay over the US envoy’s remarks about integrating Greenland into the United States, deeming such intentions as unacceptable. Rasmussen announced plans to summon US Ambassador Ken Howery for discussions to demand respect for the Kingdom of Denmark’s territorial integrity, which encompasses Denmark, the Faroe Islands, and Greenland.
Since assuming office earlier this year, Trump has repeatedly voiced interest in acquiring control of Greenland, even suggesting the possibility of using “military or economic coercion” to achieve this objective.
Greenland, a former Danish colony, officially became part of the Kingdom of Denmark in 1953. While it gained home rule in 1979, granting it increased autonomy, Denmark retains authority over foreign affairs and defense.