Denmark Firmly Rejects US Bid to Acquire Greenland
Danish FM declares US takeover out of the question amid ongoing tensions.
On January 15, 2026, Denmark's Foreign Minister Lars Løkke Rasmussen categorically ruled out any possibility of the United States acquiring Greenland, describing the idea as "out of the question." Speaking to public broadcaster DR following high-level talks at the White House, Rasmussen emphasized that such a move violates international rules, Denmark's territorial integrity, and the self-determination rights of Greenland's people. The statement came after a "frank but constructive" meeting with US Vice President JD Vance and Secretary of State Marco Rubio, where fundamental disagreements persisted despite agreements to form a working group on Arctic security concerns.
The renewed push stems from President Donald Trump's repeated insistence that the US must control Greenland for national security reasons, citing strategic Arctic interests amid growing Russian and Chinese activities. Trump has maintained that anything short of US ownership is "unacceptable," even as European NATO allies, including Denmark, deploy additional troops to the island in a show of unity and deterrence. Rasmussen stressed that enhanced cooperation on security is possible without territorial changes, dismissing acquisition as "absolutely not necessary" and warning that ignoring Danish sovereignty could doom future dialogue.
Greenland's Foreign Minister Vivian Motzfeldt echoed the rejection, affirming the island's preference to remain part of the Kingdom of Denmark while strengthening ties with the US on mutual terms. The talks highlighted a stark divide: the US seeks ownership, while Denmark and Greenland prioritize self-determination and alliance-based solutions. Danish Prime Minister Mette Frederiksen reinforced this stance, vowing to prevent any forced takeover that could undermine NATO.
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The controversy has sparked broader concerns about alliance strains, with analysts noting potential long-term implications for transatlantic relations. As a high-level working group prepares to meet, the outcome remains uncertain, but Denmark's firm position underscores unwavering opposition to any US acquisition.
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