Danish MP says Trump’s interest in Greenland could lead to conflict between NATO nations
The US president has reiterated his intention to annex the Arctic island from Denmark. US President Donald Trump’s proposal to acquire Greenland has raised concerns about potential conflict between the US and Denmark, as warned by Danish MP...
TroibNews 
The US president has reiterated his intention to annex the Arctic island from Denmark.
US President Donald Trump’s proposal to acquire Greenland has raised concerns about potential conflict between the US and Denmark, as warned by Danish MP and Defense Committee Chairman Rasmus Jarlov. The lawmaker emphasized that Denmark considers the idea of ceding the Arctic island to the US as out of the question.
Jarlov’s comments followed a meeting on Thursday between Trump and NATO Secretary General Mark Rutte, during which Trump reaffirmed his desire for Greenland to become part of the US. When asked about his "vision on the potential annexation of Greenland," Trump claimed, “I think it will happen,” and suggested that NATO could “be instrumental” in the process.
Although Rutte did not endorse the proposal, he recognized Trump’s concerns regarding security in the Arctic, pointing to the increasing presence of Russia and China in the region.
In a post on X on Friday, Jarlov expressed that Denmark does not "appreciate the Secr. Gen. of NATO joking with Trump about Greenland like this." He cautioned, “It would mean war between two NATO countries,” emphasizing that Denmark has repeatedly rejected the notion of relinquishing control over Greenland. He further stated that “joining the US remains completely out of the question” for Greenland, and such an outcome “can only be achieved if the USA invades militarily.”
Jarlov also referenced Greenland's recent election, noting, “Greenland has just voted against immediate independence from Denmark and does not want to be American ever.” He pointed out that the center-right Democrats’ victory in Greenland’s parliamentary elections included sharp criticism of Trump’s ambitions, favoring economic expansion and a gradual approach to independence.
Greenland's strategic significance is long recognized due to its location and untapped mineral resources. Although the former Danish colony was granted self-rule in 1979, it still falls under Copenhagen's jurisdiction in foreign policy, defense, and monetary matters. Trump initially proposed purchasing Greenland in 2019, but that idea was quickly dismissed by both Denmark and the Greenlandic government. Since returning to office, he has rekindled discussions about US ownership, asserting that the island is crucial to American security and economic interests.
Despite the election results indicating that Greenland opposes Trump’s plans, experts caution that the situation may evolve. The Democrats, while winning the most seats, failed to secure a majority and will need to establish a coalition. The second-largest party, Naleraq, has indicated a willingness for closer ties with the US. However, some analysts suggest that the Democrats may align with smaller parties advocating a gradual path toward independence.
Olivia Brown for TROIB News
US President Donald Trump’s proposal to acquire Greenland has raised concerns about potential conflict between the US and Denmark, as warned by Danish MP and Defense Committee Chairman Rasmus Jarlov. The lawmaker emphasized that Denmark considers the idea of ceding the Arctic island to the US as out of the question.
Jarlov’s comments followed a meeting on Thursday between Trump and NATO Secretary General Mark Rutte, during which Trump reaffirmed his desire for Greenland to become part of the US. When asked about his "vision on the potential annexation of Greenland," Trump claimed, “I think it will happen,” and suggested that NATO could “be instrumental” in the process.
Although Rutte did not endorse the proposal, he recognized Trump’s concerns regarding security in the Arctic, pointing to the increasing presence of Russia and China in the region.
In a post on X on Friday, Jarlov expressed that Denmark does not "appreciate the Secr. Gen. of NATO joking with Trump about Greenland like this." He cautioned, “It would mean war between two NATO countries,” emphasizing that Denmark has repeatedly rejected the notion of relinquishing control over Greenland. He further stated that “joining the US remains completely out of the question” for Greenland, and such an outcome “can only be achieved if the USA invades militarily.”
Jarlov also referenced Greenland's recent election, noting, “Greenland has just voted against immediate independence from Denmark and does not want to be American ever.” He pointed out that the center-right Democrats’ victory in Greenland’s parliamentary elections included sharp criticism of Trump’s ambitions, favoring economic expansion and a gradual approach to independence.
Greenland's strategic significance is long recognized due to its location and untapped mineral resources. Although the former Danish colony was granted self-rule in 1979, it still falls under Copenhagen's jurisdiction in foreign policy, defense, and monetary matters. Trump initially proposed purchasing Greenland in 2019, but that idea was quickly dismissed by both Denmark and the Greenlandic government. Since returning to office, he has rekindled discussions about US ownership, asserting that the island is crucial to American security and economic interests.
Despite the election results indicating that Greenland opposes Trump’s plans, experts caution that the situation may evolve. The Democrats, while winning the most seats, failed to secure a majority and will need to establish a coalition. The second-largest party, Naleraq, has indicated a willingness for closer ties with the US. However, some analysts suggest that the Democrats may align with smaller parties advocating a gradual path toward independence.
Olivia Brown for TROIB News
