COPENHAGEN, Denmark (AP) — The Danish government plans to summon the top U.S. diplomat in Denmark for clarification regarding a recent report by the Wall Street Journal. The report detailed the United States' intensified intelligence operations concerning Greenland, a semi-autonomous Danish territory that came under the spotlight during President Donald Trump's administration due to its strategic and resource-rich significance.
Danish Foreign Minister Lars Lokke Rasmussen announced the government’s decision after a meeting with colleagues in Poland. He indicated that the meeting would involve the U.S. chargé d'affaires in Denmark, Jennifer Hall Godfrey, to obtain a "rebuttal" or further explanation about the intelligence gathering aimed at understanding Greenland's independence movement and public sentiment on U.S. resource extraction in the region.
The Wall Street Journal's report cited unnamed individuals familiar with the intelligence effort, which reportedly included directives from U.S. officials under the leadership of Director of National Intelligence Tulsi Gabbard. This move has raised significant concerns in Denmark, where Rasmussen expressed his apprehension, stating that “we don’t spy between friends.” He emphasized the seriousness of the situation and conveyed that the Danish government would approach it with utmost gravity.
Prime Minister of Greenland recently criticized the United States for its comments regarding the mineral-rich Arctic island. He asserted that Greenland will "never, ever be a piece of property that can be bought by just anyone,” reflecting strong sentiments around self-determination and respect for sovereignty. During her visit to Greenland last month, Danish Prime Minister Mette Frederiksen reiterated this stance, echoing that annexation is impermissible, regardless of claims made by U.S. officials that international security is at stake.
U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio has addressed the issue with claims that Washington respects Greenland’s right to self-determination, suggesting that the sentiments expressed in Denmark may not align with the views of the Greenlandic people, who allegedly "don’t want to be a part of Denmark." This has added another layer of complexity to the ongoing discussions regarding Greenland’s status and its relationship with both the United States and Denmark.
The U.S. Embassy in Denmark has not provided any immediate comments regarding the summons or the intelligence initiatives mentioned in the report, leading to further speculation and concern. As the diplomatic dialogue unfolds, it will be crucial for both nations to clarify their positions and intentions regarding Greenland and ensure constructive cooperation moving forward.
