- Denmark summoned the U.S. chargé d’affaires in Copenhagen after DR reported alleged covert influence operations in Greenland.
- DR described lists of “U.S.-friendly” Greenlanders and efforts to cast Denmark negatively in American media.
- With no U.S. ambassador in place, Foreign Minister Lars Løkke Rasmussen called in Mark Stroh for consultations.
The Big Picture
Denmark summoned the top U.S. diplomat in Copenhagen after a national broadcaster DR reported that at least three Americans with connections to President Donald Trump carried out covert influence operations in Greenland, the Arctic territory that is part of the Kingdom of Denmark,according to the Associated Press. The step was taken after Danish broadcasting, DR detailed alleged efforts to sway opinion on the island.
What’s New
Danish broadcasting, DR’s reporting described activities such as compiling lists of “U.S.-friendly” Greenlanders and encouraging narratives that could cast Denmark in a negative light for American media. The broadcaster said it could not confirm whether the individuals were acting on their own or at someone’s direction. Denmark has no U.S. ambassador in place at the moment, so Foreign Minister Rasmussen called in Mark Stroh, the chargé d’affaires — a detail also noted when the BBC reported on the summons.
What They’re Saying
Context
Donald Trump, the President of the United States, has been trying to claim Greenland, a semi-autonomous Danish region, as his own. He has said that the US needs it to make itself safer.
Denmark, a NATO ally of the United States, and Greenland have both declared that the island is not for sale and have spoken out against accusations that the US is gathering intelligence there.
Greenland’s location and resources have made it strategically important for decades. Danish authorities say foreign actors show continuing interest in the island and its role within the Kingdom. Past remarks by President Trump about acquiring Greenland — and criticism from U.S. officials over Danish policy — have fueled political sensitivity around the issue. On a recent trip, Danish Prime Minister Mette Frederiksen cautioned that a nation “cannot annex another country.” Danish security service PET has said Greenland is a target for influence campaigns aimed at creating division between Nuuk and Copenhagen, according to AP.
What’s Next
The U.S. chargé d’affaires has been called to the Foreign Ministry for consultations. Danish officials say they have worked with local officials to increase their presence in Greenland and will keep an eye out for activities that could affect the situation.
The Bottom Line
Copenhagen’s quick decision to call in the senior U.S. envoy made it clear that any outside attempts to change Greenland’s political direction will be met with immediate pushback and tight coordination with Nuuk.
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