Denmark Acknowledges Arctic Security Risks
Denmark’s Foreign Minister, Lars Løkke Rasmussen, said he shares some of President Donald Trump’s concerns about Greenland’s vulnerability to China and Russia, even though he opposes a U.S. takeover.
Rasmussen told “Special Report” on Wednesday that while there is currently no Chinese presence in Greenland, the Arctic is no longer a low-tension region. He noted that Denmark invested nearly $15 billion last year to boost Greenland’s defense and security capabilities.
The remarks followed a visit by Danish and Greenlandic leaders to Washington for meetings with Vice President JD Vance and Secretary of State Marco Rubio.
Rasmussen Opposes U.S. Takeover, Supports NATO Cooperation
Rasmussen stressed that any U.S. attempt to take control of Greenland would be unacceptable, calling it “the end of NATO.” He emphasized that Denmark and the U.S. should work together through NATO rather than taking unilateral action.
Former U.S. Ambassador to Denmark Carla Sands disagreed with Rasmussen, arguing that Greenland does not have the resources to defend itself against foreign powers. She warned that both Russia and China are actively seeking influence in the Arctic region.
Trump Highlights Strategic Importance of Greenland
President Trump has repeatedly said Greenland is crucial for U.S. national security and for his proposed Golden Dome missile-defense project. He warned that if the U.S. does not act, Russia or China will, and urged NATO to support U.S. initiatives.
Greenland has expressed interest in independence from Denmark but is not seeking to become part of the United States. Still, Trump has maintained that acquiring Greenland should remain a U.S. priority.
He wrote on Truth Social, “The United States needs Greenland for the purpose of national security,” underlining the strategic significance of the territory.
