The Danish government raises concerns over US intelligence operations in Greenland, highlighting tensions surrounding the island's political status and resource potential.
Denmark's Foreign Minister to Address US Spying Allegations on Greenland
Denmark's Foreign Minister to Address US Spying Allegations on Greenland
Denmark reacts strongly to a report of US espionage activities in Greenland following former President Trump's comments regarding the island.
Denmark's Foreign Minister Lars Løkke Rasmussen has announced plans to summon the United States ambassador to discuss serious allegations regarding American spying activities in Greenland. The call for a diplomatic discussion follows a report from The Wall Street Journal that revealed US intelligence agencies were allegedly instructed to explore Greenland’s independence movement and its rich mineral resources amid threats from former President Donald Trump to acquire the island.
Rasmussen expressed his deep concerns, stating, "It worries me greatly because we do not spy on friends," and he noted that the unfolding situation requires clarification. While Director of National Intelligence Tulsi Gabbard did not deny the report, she accused the Journal of violating laws meant to protect national security and democracy by leaking classified information.
While attending an EU ministers meeting in Warsaw, Rasmussen emphasized the need for further confirmation of the report's claims. "It doesn't seem to be strongly rejected by those who speak out. That worries me," he remarked. The Danish Security and Intelligence Service (PET) acknowledged the heightened espionage risk surrounding Greenland's volatile political climate, echoing concerns of increased foreign interest in the island.
Trump has made controversial statements about Greenland, suggesting during various interviews that he might consider military action to "take control" of the territory, describing it as essential for “international security.” His aggressive rhetoric has prompted criticism from Danish officials and a united front among Greenlandic politicians against his ambitions.
In earlier statements, Danish Prime Minister Mette Frederiksen condemned an official visit by Vice President JD Vance to a US military facility in Greenland, which she characterized as inappropriate pressure on the island’s governance. Former President Joe Biden also condemned Trump's views on acquiring territory such as Greenland, declaring it contrary to American values of democracy and freedom.
Greenland, controlled by Denmark for nearly three centuries, has significant autonomy but is under Copenhagen's jurisdiction regarding foreign and defense policies. Current polls indicate a strong desire among Greenlanders for independence from Denmark, although there is little enthusiasm for becoming part of the United States.
Rasmussen expressed his deep concerns, stating, "It worries me greatly because we do not spy on friends," and he noted that the unfolding situation requires clarification. While Director of National Intelligence Tulsi Gabbard did not deny the report, she accused the Journal of violating laws meant to protect national security and democracy by leaking classified information.
While attending an EU ministers meeting in Warsaw, Rasmussen emphasized the need for further confirmation of the report's claims. "It doesn't seem to be strongly rejected by those who speak out. That worries me," he remarked. The Danish Security and Intelligence Service (PET) acknowledged the heightened espionage risk surrounding Greenland's volatile political climate, echoing concerns of increased foreign interest in the island.
Trump has made controversial statements about Greenland, suggesting during various interviews that he might consider military action to "take control" of the territory, describing it as essential for “international security.” His aggressive rhetoric has prompted criticism from Danish officials and a united front among Greenlandic politicians against his ambitions.
In earlier statements, Danish Prime Minister Mette Frederiksen condemned an official visit by Vice President JD Vance to a US military facility in Greenland, which she characterized as inappropriate pressure on the island’s governance. Former President Joe Biden also condemned Trump's views on acquiring territory such as Greenland, declaring it contrary to American values of democracy and freedom.
Greenland, controlled by Denmark for nearly three centuries, has significant autonomy but is under Copenhagen's jurisdiction regarding foreign and defense policies. Current polls indicate a strong desire among Greenlanders for independence from Denmark, although there is little enthusiasm for becoming part of the United States.
