Danish Foreign Minister Lars Løkke Rasmussen has sharply criticised the United States following ambiguous statements made by USA Secretary of Defense Pete Hegseth about hypothetical invasion plans concerning Greenland.
The controversy erupted after Hegseth, testifying before a USA Congressional committee, refused to clearly deny that the USA is considering military action in Greenland or Panama. When directly asked about any such plans, Hegseth stated that the US has plans for “all eventualities” and declined to elaborate further.
Danish backlash over US remarks on Greenland
Rasmussen described Hegseth’s comments as “highly reprehensible and disappointing,” warning that such statements only increase pressure on the Greenlandic population. “It contributes to continued pressure on the national community, which we must resist,” he said in an official statement.
The Danish government, along with Greenland’s autonomous authorities, has firmly rejected any suggestion that the island might be subject to foreign acquisition or military action.
Greenland’s status and US interest
Greenland is a self-governing territory within the Kingdom of Denmark, and has its own parliament and control over most domestic affairs. However, Denmark retains authority over defence and foreign policy.
The island has gained increased geopolitical importance in recent years due to its strategic location in the Arctic and potential natural resources. President Donald Trump has expressed interest in purchasing Greenland, a proposal that is promptly and categorically rejected by both Copenhagen and Nuuk.
Rising Arctic tensions
The latest episode reflects growing tensions in the Arctic, where major powers including the USA, Russia, and China have increased their presence. For Denmark and Greenland, this raises complex questions about sovereignty, security, and international cooperation in the region.
While the USA maintains a military presence in Greenland through Thule Air Base, any further strategic ambitions by Washington are likely to face unified opposition from both Danish and Greenlandic leaders.
