Tensions have flared between Denmark and the United States after reports suggested that American nationals linked to former President Donald Trump were carrying out influence operations in Greenland.
According to Danish broadcaster DR, at least three Americans with connections to Trump allegedly tried to sway opinion in Greenland, which is a semi-autonomous territory of Denmark. The report, based on eight unnamed sources from Denmark, Greenland, and the US, claimed that the goal was to weaken Greenland’s ties with Copenhagen.
Denmark’s foreign minister, Lars Løkke Rasmussen, responded firmly, saying that while outside interest in Greenland is nothing new, any attempt to interfere in the Kingdom of Denmark’s internal affairs would be unacceptable. He stressed that Denmark and Greenland enjoy a close relationship built on mutual trust.
The US State Department confirmed that its deputy chief of mission in Copenhagen had met with Danish officials but downplayed the issue. A White House official, speaking anonymously, told reporters that “the Danes need to calm down.” The State Department further stated that America respects “the right of the people of Greenland to determine their own future” and emphasized that the US government does not control the actions of private citizens.
Greenland has long attracted global attention due to its vast natural resources and strategic location in the Arctic, especially as climate change opens up new shipping routes. The Trump administration openly expressed interest in acquiring Greenland, with Trump himself saying he would not rule out the use of military power to secure the island for US national security reasons.
Both Denmark and Greenland have firmly rejected the idea of a sale, condemning reports of espionage or interference. Denmark’s intelligence service, PET, has also warned that Greenland is likely to remain a target of foreign influence campaigns designed to stir division.
For now, the Danish government is calling for transparency and continued trust with Greenland’s leadership, while Washington insists its relationship with Copenhagen remains strong.
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