Denmark’s Prime Minister Mette Frederiksen advocated for a reinforced Arctic defense collaboration with the United States during her visit to Greenland, firmly negating Washington’s aspirations to incorporate the semi-autonomous Danish territory into the US.
Frederiksen’s visit came after persistent tensions between Washington and Copenhagen, stemming from US President Donald Trump’s declarations regarding Greenland’s potential annexation.
At a news conference with Greenland’s outgoing and incoming prime ministers, Frederiksen, addressing the US directly, urged for a joint effort to enhance security in the Arctic alongside Denmark and Greenland.
“We cannot annex another country, not even under the guise of security,” Frederiksen stated from a military vessel against a backdrop of snowy cliffs.
According to The Washington Post, the White House is assessing the financial implications of the US federal government controlling Greenland, particularly the potential earnings from its undeveloped natural resources.
US Vice President JD Vance recently visited a US military base in northern Greenland, criticizing Denmark’s handling of the island’s security and hinting at the US’s potential to offer better protection.
Frederiksen responded, stating Vance’s depiction of Denmark was “not fair.”
Frederiksen outlined Denmark’s security measures, encompassing new Arctic ships, long-range drones, and satellite capabilities, with a promise of additional investments.
“If you wish to increase your presence in Greenland, Denmark and Greenland are ready, and if you aim to strengthen Arctic security like us, let us do it together,” she said.
Frederiksen’s three-day visit to Greenland included a tour of Nuuk in a Danish navy patrol boat, alongside Greenland’s new Prime Minister Jens-Frederik Nielsen and his predecessor Mute Egede.
DR, the Danish public broadcaster, reported that locals were enthusiastic about Frederiksen’s presence, with some showing their appreciation from windows shouting, “Hey Mette! Thanks for being here.”
“It’s clear that with the American pressure on Greenland regarding sovereignty, borders, and the future, unity is key,” Frederiksen commented upon arrival.

In parallel, US Secretary of State Marco Rubio met with Danish Foreign Minister Lars Lokke Rasmussen on the sidelines of a NATO meeting in Brussels. Rasmussen reported that Rubio acknowledged Greenland’s right to self-determination, reaffirming the strong relationship between the US and Denmark.