COPENHAGEN, Denmark (AP) — Over 15 years ago, Danish platoon commander Martin Tamm Andersen led Danish troops and U.S. Marines through the harsh conditions of southern Afghanistan following a Taliban attack. While moving at the rear of the convoy, Andersen experienced a sudden and violent explosion that left him confused and unsure about the status of his body. Once the dust settled, he found wounded soldiers, with one bleeding severely from his face and another with a broken back. The explosion had destroyed their vehicle.
Andersen quickly called for assistance from U.S. Marines, who halted their firefight with the Taliban to secure the area and treat the injured, helping prepare them for evacuation. At that time, American and Danish troops were united in their mission, risking their lives for a common goal.
However, the dynamics of the U.S.-Danish relationship have drastically changed. In the current climate, President Donald Trump has escalated threats to seize Greenland, a semi-autonomous territory of Denmark, arguing that it is necessary for U.S. security interests. The claims have left Andersen feeling betrayed, as he cannot reconcile Denmark's loyalty and sacrifice alongside American forces with the idea of the U.S. seizing a part of Denmark.
Speaking at the Danish War Museum in Copenhagen, where his damaged vehicle is displayed, Andersen expressed his sadness over this shift in relations, noting the historical commitment Denmark has shown as a NATO ally, particularly following events like the 9/11 attacks.
As the U.S. continues to assert its interest in Greenland, many in Europe have expressed feelings of sadness and betrayal, concerned about the implications for European security, especially amid Russian aggression. Denmark’s Prime Minister has warned that such actions could signal the end of NATO.
For Danish veterans, including Andersen, the U.S. rhetoric surrounding Greenland is deeply personal. Denmark, a NATO member since 1949, has lost numerous soldiers in both Afghanistan and Iraq, marking a significant commitment to the U.S. military operations. Andersen remarked that the situation feels surreal, as if it were a bad joke, given the history of cooperation between the two nations.
Another veteran, Søren Knudsen, who served twice in Afghanistan, was shocked when he heard U.S. Vice President JD Vance describing Denmark as “not being a good ally.” Vance's remarks claimed Denmark was failing in its responsibilities regarding U.S. security interests in Greenland, which Knudsen found hard to believe, given the sacrifices Danish veterans made in support of American missions. He keeps a framed U.S. flag and a Bronze Star in his home as proud reminders of his service but has chosen to pack them away in light of the current U.S. administration's disregard for Denmark.
Knudsen, who leads the Danish Veterans Association, conveys the hurt felt by many veterans who see this rhetoric as an affront to their service. They express a strong objection to Trump's portrayal of Denmark’s capabilities and dedication, maintaining that the country is prepared to support NATO and U.S. interests in the Arctic region. Both Andersen and Knudsen argue that Denmark's historical commitment to NATO reflects its determination to help maintain security and stability.
They spoke about the personal bonds formed with American service members and the loyalty they’ve shown toward one another. Knudsen believes that a U.S. invasion of Greenland would be devastating, representing a significant blow to the NATO alliance. He worried that it would also diminish his respect and admiration for the United States, which he has held for the past 250 years.
Amid these tensions, Danish veterans stand firm in their belief that the U.S. has already established a presence in Greenland through defense agreements, and both Denmark and Greenland have expressed willingness to bolster American military presence as needed. However, Trump’s public statements emphasize a perceived need for ownership, complicating the existing relationship between the allied nations.
