In an effort to defuse a growing diplomatic crisis with the Trump administration over the largest island in the globe, Danish Prime Minister Mette Frederiksen stated that her country is prepared to let the United States increase its military presence in Greenland.
Ahead of a gathering of European Union leaders in Brussels, Frederiksen told reporters that the US “can have more possibilities” in the region, which already has an American military installation that keeps an eye on space and recognizes missile threats.
“I totally agree with the Americans that the High North, the Arctic region is becoming more and more important when we are talking about defense and security and deterrence. And it is possible to find a way to ensure stronger footprints in Greenland,” Frederiksen said.
However she later claimed that Greenland was ‘not for sale.’
Frederiksen’s remarks coincide with a stalemate between Washington and Copenhagen following President Donald Trump’s insistence that he wants to seize Greenland for national security.
Frederiksen recently met with officials from France, Germany, and the Nordic region to address the situation in an effort to rally support from European allies.
According to an EU official, leaders at Monday’s EU summit discussed Greenland and pledged their unwavering support and solidarity with Denmark.
Since Greenland is a self-governing region inside the Danish realm, most domestic matters are under the jurisdiction of Nuuk policymakers. In order to strengthen defenses, Denmark, which is in charge of the defense and security strategy on the mineral-rich Arctic island, is investing 14.6 billion kroner ($2 billion).
At a separate briefing on Monday, Frederiksen also addressed Danish reporters about US Vice President JD Vance’s assertions that Denmark isn’t a good ally.
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