US President Donald Trump has mocked Denmark’s measures to bolster its defense of Greenland, which include adding two more dog sled patrols, asserting that the US would eventually claim control over the strategically significant Arctic territory.
Denmark’s defense minister admitted that the country has not adequately protected its autonomous territory, Greenland, and announced plans to invest $1.5 billion in two new inspection ships, drones, and the additional dog sled patrols following Trump’s renewed interest in the island.
During a recent flight on Air Force One, Trump stated, “I do believe Greenland, we’ll get — because it really has to do with freedom of the world. It has nothing to do with the United States, other than we’re the one that can provide the freedom. They [Denmark] can’t. They put two dog sleds there two weeks ago, they thought that was protection.”
Trump held a heated 45-minute phone call with Denmark’s Prime Minister Mette Frederiksen last week, which sources described as confrontational. Reports indicate that the Danish government is in “crisis mode” after Trump suggested he might consider military action against an ally and threatened tariffs. The US maintains the only military base in Greenland, located in the northern part of the island.
The Danish military’s current presence in Greenland comprises an Arctic Command consisting of just 75 personnel, equipped with four ships and a surveillance aircraft. Both Danish and Greenlandic officials have acknowledged the possibility of an increased US military presence, with discussions taking place about establishing a second base or adding more troops.
Troels Lund Poulsen, Denmark’s defense minister, mentioned plans to enhance Greenland’s defense, including the purchase of new ships, drones, and dog sled patrols, as well as upgrades to a main airport runway to accommodate F-35 fighter jets operated by both the US and Denmark.
While the US has consistently recognized Danish sovereignty over Greenland, Trump expressed uncertainty about Denmark’s claim to the island. He stated, “I don’t really know what claim Denmark has to it, but it would be a very unfriendly act if they didn’t allow that to happen because it’s for the protection of the free world. Right now, you have Russian ships, you have Chinese ships, you have ships from various countries. It’s not a good situation.”
Trump concluded, “I think Greenland will be worked out with us. I think we’re going to have it. I think the people want to be with us.”
European nations are actively strategizing on how to respond to Trump’s assertions regarding Denmark without jeopardizing their own interests. Some have encouraged Frederiksen to take a more assertive stance against the US president. To date, she has maintained that Greenland is not for sale but has welcomed increased US involvement in Arctic matters.
The Danish Prime Minister’s office indicated it does not agree with Trump’s version of their conversation, although it did not clarify which specific points were disputed. US officials have not challenged the reports of the exchange.
photo credit: www.ft.com
