European unity crucial as tensions with US escalate, says Danish PM

By Elías Thorsson January 26, 2025
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Helsinki, Finland, January 14, 2025: Presidential Palace: Summit of NATO allies in the Baltic region: L-R: Prime Minister of Poland Donald Tusk, Prime Minister of Sweden Ulf Kristersson (from behind), Prime Minister of Denmark Mette Frederiksen, and German Chancellor Olaf Scholz (SPD).Copyright: xKugler,xSteffen/BPA/dtsxNachrichtenagenturx

Tensions between Denmark and the United States are intensifying after President Donald Trump renewed his push to acquire Greenland, prompting Danish Prime Minister Mette Frederiksen to call for greater European solidarity.

“European cohesion has never been more important,” Frederiksen said in an interview with Danish national broadcaster DR.

Frederiksen addressed reports of a tense 45-minute phone call with Trump, during which he reiterated his desire to buy Greenland and reportedly hinted at economic repercussions, including tariffs, if Denmark refused. Frederiksen declined to share specific details of the conversation, describing it only as “difficult and direct.” She reaffirmed Denmark’s position unequivocally.

“Greenland is not for sale,” she said. “It is part of the Kingdom of Denmark and its future will be determined by the Greenlandic people.”

Denmark has long been one of the U.S.’ most reliable international allies and Frederiksen admitted that her government was faced with an unprecedented situation.

“We might as well be honest and say that this is an unfamiliar situation, for all of Europe. We have been each other’s closest allies since World War II. So, I will do everything I can to ensure that we Europeans and Americans stay on that course,” she said.

Frederiksen also announced that Denmark’s Parliament, Folketinget, is finalizing a new Arctic strategy to strengthen the Kingdom’s presence in the region. The plan will focus on protecting Greenland’s sovereignty, addressing environmental concerns, safeguarding indigenous rights and preparing for increased geopolitical competition.

“We are witnessing a growing interest in the Arctic from global powers,” she said. “Denmark and Greenland must work together to ensure the region’s stability and sustainability.”

In a broader appeal, Frederiksen called on European nations to unite in addressing these challenges.

“We are stronger when we stand together,” she said.