Danish PM Rejects Renewed US Efforts to Acquire Greenland, Condemning 'Threats and Pressure'

Danish Prime Minister Delivers Firm Rejection

Danish Prime Minister Mette Frederiksen, in her New Year's address on January 1, 2026, strongly rebuffed renewed efforts by the United States to acquire Greenland. Speaking from her official residence, Frederiksen condemned what she described as 'threats, pressure, and condescending talk' from a 'closest ally', implicitly referring to the United States. She emphasized that the notion of taking over another country or people 'as if it were something you could buy and own' was an 'outdated and unacceptable worldview'. Frederiksen asserted, 'No matter what happens, we will stand firm on what is right and wrong'.

Renewed US Interest and Diplomatic Tensions

The Prime Minister's remarks come amidst heightened diplomatic tensions following US President Donald Trump's re-election in 2024 and his return to office in January 2025. On December 21, 2025, President Trump appointed Louisiana Governor Jeff Landry as a special envoy to Greenland, with the declared intention of 'mak Greenland a part of the U.S.' Reports indicate that Trump has not ruled out the use of 'military or economic coercion' to achieve this objective. Danish Foreign Minister Lars Lokke Rasmussen labeled Landry's appointment as 'completely unacceptable' and summoned the US ambassador for clarification.

Greenland's Status and Historical Context

Greenland is an autonomous territory within the Kingdom of Denmark. It achieved home rule in 1979 and expanded self-government in 2009. While Greenland exercises control over many domestic affairs, its defense and foreign policy remain under Danish purview. Both Greenlandic and Danish authorities have consistently maintained that Greenland is 'not for sale' and that its future is a matter for its people to decide. The United States has a long history of expressing interest in acquiring Greenland, with discussions and attempts dating back to the 19th century, including in 1867, 1910, 1946, 1955, and 2019. Notably, after World War II, the US secretly offered $100 million in gold to purchase the island.

Danish and Greenlandic Resolve

In response to the escalating pressure, Denmark is reportedly increasing its military strength and security presence in the Arctic. King Frederik X echoed the Prime Minister's sentiments in his own New Year's Eve address, highlighting new military training programs and praising the 'strength and pride' of the Greenlandic people during 'turbulent times'. Greenlandic Premier Múte B. Egede has also reiterated that Greenland is 'not for sale' but is open to business and seeks to forge closer collaborations with other nations, not solely through Denmark.