Denmark Urges US to Respect Territorial Integrity After Greenland Map Controversy

 

Denmark Urges US to Respect Territorial Integrity After Greenland Map Sparks Tension

Denmark has issued a firm diplomatic reminder to the United States to respect its territorial integrity after a controversial social media post reignited debate over Greenland’s future.

The post came from Katie Miller, the wife of US President Donald Trump’s deputy chief of staff, who shared an altered image of Greenland displayed in the colors of the American flag. The image was posted on X late Saturday alongside the word “SOON,” prompting swift reactions from Danish officials.

Danish Ambassador Responds to Greenland Post

Denmark’s ambassador to the United States, Jesper Moeller Soerensen, reposted the image with a pointed but diplomatic response. He reminded Washington of the close alliance between the two countries and emphasized Denmark’s sovereignty over Greenland.

Soerensen stressed that Denmark and the United States are long-standing NATO allies and that Greenland already falls under NATO’s security umbrella through Denmark.

“US security is also Greenland’s and Denmark’s security,” he said, noting that both nations work closely to ensure stability in the Arctic and North Atlantic regions.

Denmark Highlights Defense Spending and NATO Role

The ambassador also pointed to Denmark’s increased defense investment, revealing that Copenhagen committed $13.7 billion in 2025 toward military capabilities. He said the funding could be used in the Arctic and North Atlantic, underscoring Denmark’s commitment to joint security.

He added that while Denmark values its alliance with Washington, it expects full respect for the territorial integrity of the Kingdom of Denmark.

Trump’s Renewed Push for Greenland Raises Concerns

The controversy comes amid renewed attention on President Trump’s long-standing interest in Greenland. Trump has repeatedly suggested that the island should become part of the United States, citing its strategic location and rich mineral resources.

Greenland plays a key role in Arctic defense, missile monitoring, and emerging shipping routes. It is also believed to hold significant reserves of rare earth minerals essential to modern technology and defense industries.

Trump has previously declined to rule out the use of force to secure control over Greenland, a stance that has unsettled Denmark and other NATO allies.

Special Envoy Appointment Sparks Anger in Denmark

Tensions increased recently after the US government appointed a special envoy to Greenland. Danish officials viewed the move as unnecessary and provocative, further straining relations between Copenhagen and Washington.

Denmark has traditionally maintained strong diplomatic ties with the United States, making the current friction particularly sensitive.

Broader Context After US Action in Venezuela

The Greenland dispute follows a dramatic US military operation against Venezuela over the weekend. American forces captured Venezuelan President Nicolas Maduro and his wife, transporting them to New York.

Following the operation, President Trump stated that the United States would effectively run Venezuela and allow US oil companies to operate there, raising international alarm over Washington’s foreign policy direction.

Greenland’s Status and Public Opinion

Greenland has enjoyed extensive self-government since 1979, controlling most domestic affairs. However, defense and foreign policy remain under Danish authority.

The island is home to roughly 57,000 people. While many Greenlanders support eventual independence from Denmark, opinion polls consistently show strong opposition to becoming part of the United States.

Greenlandic leaders have repeatedly stated that the island is not for sale and that its future should be decided solely by its people.

Denmark Draws a Clear Diplomatic Line

Denmark’s response to the viral Greenland map may have been polite in tone, but the message was clear. Copenhagen values its alliance with Washington, but sovereignty and international law are non-negotiable.

As global competition in the Arctic intensifies, Greenland is likely to remain a focal point of geopolitical interest. For now, Denmark has made it clear that alliance does not mean surrendering territorial rights.