At a time when the Arctic is heating up (literally 🌡️), Denmark and Greenland are sending a clear message: Arctic security talks must respect Greenland's territorial integrity. On Thursday, January 22, 2026, Danish Prime Minister Mette Frederiksen emphasized her country's openness to constructive dialogue—as long as it honors that principle.
US Walks Back Greenland Tariff Threats
Earlier this week at the World Economic Forum in Davos, US President Donald Trump walked back threats to impose tariffs on European countries opposing his desire to seize Greenland. He ruled out the use of force and suggested progress on a deal to end the dispute over the semi-autonomous Danish territory. After meeting NATO Secretary General Mark Rutte, Trump proposed a "Golden Dome" missile-defence system to protect the US and gain mineral access, aiming to block what he called Russia's and the Chinese mainland's ambitions. Both nations have rejected the claim.
Territorial Integrity First
Frederiksen reminded allies that NATO knows Denmark’s position and confirmed Rutte’s negotiations did not touch Denmark's sovereignty. "Security in the Arctic is a matter for the entire NATO alliance. Therefore, it is good and natural that it is also discussed between NATO's Secretary General and the President of the United States," she said. "The Kingdom of Denmark wishes to continue to engage in a constructive dialogue with allies on how we can strengthen security in the Arctic, including the United States' Golden Dome, provided that this is done with respect for our territorial integrity."
The Greenland Perspective
The US military, which peaked in Greenland during the Cold War, now maintains a smaller but permanent presence at the Pituffik air base under a 1951 agreement that allows new bases with Denmark and Greenland's notification. Greenland enjoys extensive autonomy over domestic affairs and holds the right to declare independence after a referendum and Danish parliamentary approval.
Aaja Chemnitz, a Greenlandic member of the Danish parliament, stressed that no agreements on Greenland can exclude its residents: "NATO in no way has a sole mandate to negotiate anything without us from Greenland."
Reference(s):
cgtn.com
