Denmark is reportedly in “crisis mode” following a tense 45-minute “explosive” phone call earlier this month between President Donald Trump and Danish Prime Minister Mette Frederiksen regarding US efforts to purchase Greenland.
During the call, Trump reportedly unleashed a “torrent of aggression” after Frederiksen told him the semi-autonomous territory owned by Denmark was “not for sale,” according to a report by the Daily Mail. Additionally, the outlet reported that a source told the Mail on Sunday, “The Danes are in crisis mode but he's not backing down.”
The Financial Times has reported that Trump’s phone call, which was made just five days before his inauguration, included threats to impose tariffs on Denmark, a NATO ally. One source told the outlet “It was horrendous.”
“Before, it was hard to take it seriously but I do think it's serious and potentially very dangerous,” another source said.
Trump’s strong push to acquire Greenland has roots in his first term. US officials have long argued that the territory holds strategic value for national security, particularly as Russia and China increase their investments in the Arctic. Additionally, Greenland’s untapped natural resources are seen as an economic opportunity for the United States.
Brian Hughes, spokesman for the US National Security Council, defended the administration’s interest in Greenland, stating, “President Trump has been clear that the safety and security of Greenland is important to the United States as China and Russia make significant investments throughout the Arctic region.”
He added, “The President is committed to not only protecting US interests in the Arctic but working with Greenland to ensure mutual prosperity for both nations.”
Despite rhetoric by the US, Greenland and Denmark have reiterated that the country is not for sale. Greenland’s Foreign Minister Ane Lone Bagger responded to the US interest, saying, “We are open for business, but we’re not for sale.”
