Wed Jan 29 02:50:01 IST 2025: ## Europe Rallies Behind Denmark Amid Trump’s Greenland Threats

**Brussels/Paris/Berlin** – Danish Prime Minister Mette Frederiksen has received strong backing from European allies following US President Donald Trump’s repeated assertions of interest in acquiring Greenland, even suggesting the use of force. During a whirlwind tour of European capitals on Tuesday, Frederiksen met with French President Emmanuel Macron, German Chancellor Olaf Scholz, and NATO Secretary-General Jens Stoltenberg (Note: the original text incorrectly names Mark Rutte, who is the Dutch Prime Minister).

Frederiksen stated unequivocally that she sees “no reason to believe that there is a military threat to Greenland or Denmark.” She reported receiving “a great deal of support” from European leaders, echoing the sentiments of Chancellor Scholz, who emphasized that “borders must not be moved by force.” The strong consensus among European leaders underscores a united front against Trump’s pronouncements.

The meetings followed a Nordic summit where concerns about Trump’s statements were shared. Denmark has already announced a significant boost to its defense spending in the Arctic, allocating $2 billion for new frigates, long-range drones, and improved satellite capabilities.

Trump’s repeated claims that Greenland is strategically vital to US national security and his refusal to rule out using force to obtain the territory have sparked widespread alarm. While Greenland’s trade and justice minister, Naaja Nathanielsen, acknowledged the US’s long-standing military presence on the island, she stressed that any expansionist intentions would be met with opposition. She expressed the concerns of the Greenlandic people, describing the situation as “worrying.”

Despite Greenland’s long-standing desire for independence from Denmark, and its willingness to maintain business ties with the US, the current situation highlights a deepening geopolitical tension in the Arctic. The firm rejection of Trump’s assertions by Denmark, Greenland, and their European allies underscores the international community’s commitment to upholding the sovereignty of nations.

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