A diplomatic dispute has emerged between Denmark and the United States following reports of alleged covert operations conducted in Greenland. Danish Foreign Minister Lars Lokke Rasmussen summoned a senior U.S. diplomat in Copenhagen Wednesday, according to Danish broadcaster DR, to address concerns over the matter.
Information obtained by DR suggests that at least three U.S. citizens, reportedly with ties to the U.S. President and the White House, have been actively engaged in networks within Greenland over a period of time. The alleged aim of these activities was to infiltrate Greenlandic society and promote efforts toward independence from Denmark, potentially to the benefit of U.S. interests.
DR reports that during a visit to the Greenlandic capital, Nuuk, one of the U.S. citizens allegedly attempted to compile a list of Greenlanders who might support a potential U.S. takeover of the island, with a view toward recruiting individuals for a secession movement.
Danish intelligence services have reportedly identified Greenland as a target for various forms of external influence. Foreign Minister Rasmussen stated that any attempt to interfere in Denmark’s internal affairs is unacceptable.
The situation follows previous expressions of interest in Greenland from U.S. officials. Former U.S. President Trump had previously signaled U.S. interest in acquiring Greenland, an autonomous territory within the Kingdom of Denmark and Vice President JD Vance recently criticized Copenhagen for what he perceived as insufficient investment in the region.
