US Denies Covert Operations in Greenland, Tells Denmark to “Calm Down”
COPENHAGEN — In a bold move, the US has dismissed claims of conducting covert operations in Greenland and urged Denmark to relax after the top US diplomat in Copenhagen was summoned over the allegations.
Denmark’s public broadcaster DR reported that sources revealed a supposed plan to infiltrate society and advocate for Greenland’s secession from Denmark to the US, although the men’s true allegiance remains unclear.
A White House official declined to confirm the existence of an influence campaign, but instead stated, “We think the Danes need to calm down.”
Foreign Minister Lars Lokke Rasmussen firmly stated, “any attempt to interfere in the internal affairs of the Kingdom [of Denmark] will of course be unacceptable”.
Concerns were raised by Danish intelligence regarding various influence campaigns targeting Greenland.
A US state department spokesperson shared that Chargé d’Affaires Mark Stroh had a “productive conversation” with the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, reiterating the strong ties between Greenland, Denmark, and the US.
While the US respects Greenland’s right to self-determination, President Trump’s expressed desire to annex the territory has stirred tensions. Vice-President JD Vance accused Copenhagen of neglecting Greenland’s needs.
Danish Prime Minister Mette Frederiksen warned the US against any annexation attempts during a recent visit to Greenland.
The Danish government remains vigilant, acknowledging foreign interest in Greenland and its position within the Kingdom of Denmark.
Denmark, a key Nato and EU member, has been taken aback by Trump’s aggressive stance towards Greenland. The President even suggested seizing the territory by force.
The PET security and intelligence service of Denmark highlighted the potential for influence campaigns to disrupt relations between Denmark and Greenland, emphasizing the need for vigilance.
The lack of a US ambassador in Copenhagen led to the summoning of Mark Stroh, the most senior US diplomat in the Danish capital.
Lars Lokke Rasmussen had previously called on the US charge d’affaires earlier this year following reports of US spy agencies focusing on Greenland.
Recent reports have detailed American efforts to identify Greenlanders supportive of US influence, with aims to recruit them for a secession movement. The US has also shown interest in Greenland’s independence movement and mineral extraction.
Despite the complexities of Greenland’s relationship with Denmark, most Greenlanders are not in favor of becoming part of the US. US Vice-President JD Vance’s accusations against Denmark for not protecting Greenland from external threats have been met with resistance.
The Danish foreign minister’s decision to summon the US charge d’affaires is seen as a significant diplomatic move, reflecting escalating tensions between the two nations.
Denmark’s strong ties with the US have been tested, with even Danish companies like Orsted facing backlash from the US government over renewable energy projects.
The Revolution Wind project, led by Danish multinational Orsted, faced setbacks after Trump’s opposition to wind power initiatives. Despite challenges, Denmark remains resilient in defending its interests and sovereignty.
Shares in Orsted may have taken a hit, but Denmark’s resolve in protecting Greenland and its values remains steadfast.
As the US-Denmark relations face unprecedented strains, both nations are left grappling with the consequences of escalating tensions and conflicting interests.
