Geopolitical tensions in the Arctic have taken a new turn as Denmark and Greenland emphasize the need to safeguard territorial integrity amid broader security talks.
On January 22, 2026, Danish prime minister Mette Frederiksen said Denmark and Greenland are open to constructive dialogue on Arctic securityprovided discussions fully respect the Kingdom of Denmarks territorial integrity.
This statement follows U.S. president Donald Trumps remarks at the World Economic Forum in Davos on January 21. Trump walked back earlier threats to impose tariffs on European nations over Greenland and ruled out using force. He suggested progress toward a deal that could combine a Golden Dome missiledefence system with access to Greenlands mineral resources, aiming to counter what he described as ambitions by Russia and the Chinese mainland. Both Moscow and the Chinese mainland have rejected these claims.
Frederiksen stressed that security in the Arctic is a matter for the entire NATO alliance, noting that talks between NATO secretary general Mark Rutte and the U.S. president did not involve Danish sovereignty. The Kingdom of Denmark wishes to continue to engage in a constructive dialogue with allies on how we can strengthen security in the Arctic, including the United States Golden Dome, provided that this is done with respect for our territorial integrity, she said.
During the Cold War, the U.S. deployed thousands of troops to Greenland, but today its footprint is limited to Pituffik air base in northwest Greenland under a 1951 agreement. Greenland, which is part of NATO through Denmarks membership, has extensive autonomy except in foreign affairs and defence unless jointly agreed. Since 2009, it has held the right to pursue independence after a referendum and Danish parliamentary approval.
Greenlandic MP Aaja Chemnitz highlighted the islands role: It is of course only Denmark and Greenland itself that can strike agreements regarding questions concerning Denmark and Greenland. NATO in no way has a sole mandate to negotiate anything without us from Greenland.
As Arctic rivalries intensify, Denmark and Greenland aim to ensure any security cooperation respects their shared interests and involves Greenlandic voices every step of the way.
Reference(s):
cgtn.com
