The Prime Minister of Denmark, Mette Frederiksen, is set to embark on a significant visit to Greenland next week. This trip comes shortly after Vice President JD Vance's visit and coincides with the formation of a new broad coalition within Greenland's government. The visit, which was confirmed in a press release from Frederiksen on Saturday, aims to “strengthen the bond with Greenland” and enhance the cooperation between Greenland and Denmark.
In her announcement, Frederiksen emphasized her eagerness to maintain a "close and trusting cooperation" with Greenland. This visit is particularly timely, as Greenland's government revealed a new coalition agreement on Friday. The coalition comprises Greenland's Democrats and several other parties, a move championed by coalition leader Jens-Frederik Nielsen. This agreement is seen as a measure of unity in response to increasing threats from President Donald Trump, who has suggested the idea of annexing the territory.
During her visit, Frederiksen plans to meet with Nielsen and engage with residents of Greenland. This is notable, especially since Vice President Vance did not receive an invitation from the Greenlandic government and did not interact with local citizens during his visit. Vance had traveled to the U.S. Pituffik Space Base in Greenland, where he urged the territory to “cut a deal” with the United States.
Trump’s interest in Greenland has intensified, with the territory being framed as a critical component of U.S. national security in the Arctic region. He stated in a recent Oval Office briefing that “we have to have” Greenland to secure the U.S.'s strategic position. In a contrasting tone, Vance expressed respect for Greenland's self-determination, indicating that he believes the Greenlanders will eventually choose independence from Denmark.
Frederiksen's announcement appeared to underline the significance of self-determination for Greenland, while also advocating for cross-party collaboration. Vance's visit has raised eyebrows among European leaders, particularly Danish Foreign Minister Lars Løkke Rasmussen. He publicly criticized Vance’s trip as disrespectful and expressed his discontent with the U.S. approach to Greenland. “This is not how you speak to your close allies,” said Rasmussen, reaffirming the longstanding alliance between Denmark and the United States.
The relationship between Washington and Copenhagen has faced tensions, particularly as Trump has openly criticized Denmark for not doing enough to protect Greenland from potential threats posed by Russia and China. In light of these concerns, Rasmussen acknowledged that an enhanced military presence on the island might be necessary to safeguard its interests.
This upcoming visit by Denmark’s Prime Minister is poised to be a pivotal moment in enhancing cooperation and addressing the geopolitical dynamics surrounding Greenland and its relationship with both Denmark and the United States.
