Denmark and U.S. remain divided over Greenland security as European partners join Arctic cooperation efforts

Denmark and the United States have acknowledged a continuing disagreement over discussions concerning Greenland’s security and strategic importance following high-level talks in Washington. Danish Foreign Minister Lars Løkke Rasmussen met with U.S. Vice President JD Vance and Secretary of State Marco Rubio, alongside Greenland’s Foreign Minister Vivian Motzfeldt. Rasmussen described the meeting as “frank and constructive” but confirmed that differences remain. He stated that while both sides share an interest in maintaining stability in the Arctic, their approaches to long-term security arrangements for Greenland are not the same. Denmark reiterated that Greenland’s political status and sovereignty are not open for negotiation.

U.S. officials have publicly expressed increased interest in Greenland’s role in Arctic security due to its geographic position and growing international attention in the region. President Donald Trump has stated that Greenland is important to U.S. national security and has emphasized the need for strong defense capabilities in the Arctic. Danish officials responded by reaffirming that Greenland is part of the Kingdom of Denmark and that any decisions regarding its future must involve Greenland’s government and people. Following the Washington meeting, Rasmussen confirmed that both sides agreed to establish a working group to continue dialogue on security cooperation while respecting Denmark’s sovereignty and territorial integrity.

Denmark has also announced measures to strengthen its defense activities in Greenland and surrounding Arctic areas. Danish Defense Minister Troels Lund Poulsen stated that Denmark will increase military presence, training, and exercises in the region in cooperation with NATO allies. Sweden has confirmed that officers from its armed forces are participating in joint Arctic exercises with Denmark. Norwegian officials have likewise announced limited military cooperation initiatives linked to Arctic training and planning. These activities have been presented as part of routine alliance coordination and preparedness in the Arctic environment.

European leaders have emphasized that Greenland’s future must be decided by Denmark and Greenland alone. German Vice-Chancellor Lars Klingbeil stated that international law must be respected and that Greenland’s status is not subject to external determination. Danish officials have stressed that continued dialogue with the United States will focus on addressing shared security concerns without compromising Danish sovereignty. While discussions between Copenhagen and Washington are ongoing, both sides have publicly committed to diplomatic engagement and cooperation within existing international frameworks. Greenland remains under Danish sovereignty, with further talks planned to explore mutually acceptable approaches to Arctic security.