Greenland Row: Denmark Refuses To Compromise On Sovereignty, Ready For Dialogue With Donald Trump

New Delhi: Greenland is once again in the spotlight amid rising geopolitical tensions in the Arctic region. US President Donald Trump recently threatened tariffs on European countries over his demand for US control of the island, but he backed down on Wednesday, claiming that a "framework for a future agreement" on Arctic security had been established with NATO Secretary General Mark Rutte.

What has Denmark said on the Greenland issue?

In response, Danish Prime Minister Mette Frederiksen took a firm stance over the Greenland issue on Thursday, making it clear that her country would not compromise on its sovereignty. She stated that while Denmark is open to discussing all political issues, including security, investment, and the economy, there would be no discussion on the country's sovereignty.

In her statement, Frederiksen said that Arctic security is a shared concern for all NATO member states, and it is natural and appropriate that the US President and NATO Secretary General Mark Rutte discussed it. She stated that she is in "continuous" contact with Rutte, including before and after his meeting with Trump in Davos.

“NATO is fully aware of Denmark's position. Political issues, including security, investment, and economic matters, can be discussed, but we cannot negotiate our sovereignty,” she said.

“Only Denmark and Greenland have the right to make decisions regarding matters concerning Denmark and Greenland. Denmark wants to continue constructive dialogue with its allies to strengthen security in the Arctic, including the US Golden Dome program, provided that it respects our territorial integrity,” Frederiksen added.

Trump had threatened to impose tariffs on eight European countries to pressure them into allowing US control of Greenland, a threat he withdrew on Wednesday. In Davos, he said he would not use force to acquire Greenland and that he was open to discussing the issue. Earlier, Trump had said that he wanted to acquire the island with "full rights, ownership, and possession."

What has NATO said?

NATO Secretary General Mark Rutte said that the alliance is hoping for an end to the impasse.

“We will come together in Nato with our senior commanders to work out what is necessary,” Rutte said on Thursday. “I have no doubt we can do this quite fast. Certainly I would hope for 2026, I hope even early in 2026.”