Arctic security is in the spotlight 🌍❄️. Danish Prime Minister Mette Frederiksen says Denmark and Greenland are open to constructive talks on security in the Arctic—if discussions respect Greenland’s territorial integrity.
Earlier this week at Davos, US President Donald Trump walked back threats to impose tariffs on European countries and ruled out force to seize Greenland. He hinted at progress on a deal that would let the US deploy its Golden Dome missile defense system, tap Greenland’s mineral wealth (think critical metals for EV batteries and smartphones), and counter what the US sees as Russia and China moving north. Both Moscow and Beijing have dismissed these claims.
Frederiksen stressed that NATO views Arctic security as an alliance matter. After talks with NATO Secretary General Mark Rutte, she confirmed Denmark’s sovereignty wasn’t on the table. 'Security in the Arctic is for the entire NATO alliance,' she said, adding that any defense dialogue must honour Denmark and Greenland’s self-rule.
Greenland, a semi-autonomous part of the Kingdom of Denmark, hosts the US Pituffik air base under a 1951 deal. Though US troop numbers fell after the Cold War, the agreement still lets America build new bases with advance notice to Denmark and Greenland.
Since 2009, Greenland has the right to hold an independence referendum if both it and the Danish parliament agree. Aaja Chemnitz, the Greenlandic member of the Danish parliament, reminded everyone that no decisions about Greenland can happen without Greenland’s participation. ⚖️🤝
As climate change opens new Arctic sea routes and reveals untapped resources, this dialogue could shape the region’s future. Stay tuned for more updates on how these talks evolve! 🔍🌐
Reference(s):
cgtn.com
