Danish MP Rasmus Jarlov criticizes the U.S. over Greenland, claiming that Washington, not Moscow or Beijing, poses the real threat to the Arctic territory’s security. His call includes sending Danish troops to Greenland to reinforce sovereignty.
Danish Criticism of U.S. Claims Over Greenland
Tensions over Greenland’s autonomy have resurfaced after Conservative Party MP Rasmus Jarlov accused the United States of undermining the island’s security. Speaking to CNN from Copenhagen, Jarlov called it remarkable that American officials continue to discuss Greenland as if it were a disputed territory, despite decades of treaties confirming it as part of the Danish Realm.
He argued that Washington’s suggestion that only the U.S. can “protect” Greenland is misleading. According to Jarlov, it is precisely the U.S. approach that now threatens stability. He reminded that neither Russia nor China has indicated any interest in taking control of the territory.
Greenland, home to nearly 57,000 residents, has long been a cornerstone of Arctic geopolitics. The U.S. already maintains a military presence at Thule Air Base, but Jarlov warned that expanding American influence politically or economically would amount to pressure on both Denmark and Greenland.
Calls for a Stronger Danish Military Presence
In an interview on Denmark’s P1 Debate radio program, Jarlov reiterated that while he does not expect a direct U.S. military move into Greenland, Denmark should send troops northward to demonstrate its commitment. He said that a military presence would send a strong symbol of solidarity with Greenlanders, who remain integral members of the Danish Commonwealth.
European allies have already shown support. Earlier this week, Denmark, Germany, France, and several other NATO countries issued a joint statement affirming that Greenland’s future remains a matter for Greenland and Denmark alone. Jarlov described this as a step in the right direction and an important diplomatic show of unity among allies.
He also suggested that Denmark and Greenland could impose entry bans on certain American politicians who have publicly discussed U.S. control over the island. Although Jarlov doubts such a takeover attempt would ever occur, he believes preparing diplomatically and militarily would be prudent.
Comparisons to U.S. Territories
Jarlov compared Greenland’s position in the Kingdom of Denmark to that of Alaska or Hawaii within the United States. He argued that it would be unacceptable for any foreign nation to offer incentives for Hawaii to leave the U.S., and by that logic, it should be just as unthinkable for another power to make such a proposal to Greenland.
At the heart of Jarlov’s stance lies a clear message: Greenland’s link to Denmark is not only political but historical, built over centuries of cooperation and, more recently, through self-governance arrangements under the Danish constitution.
Social Democrats Advocate Diplomatic Solutions
However, not all Danish politicians agree with Jarlov’s call for deploying troops. Christian Rabjerg Madsen, the political spokesperson for the ruling Social Democrats, stressed the importance of diplomacy instead of direct confrontation.
Speaking on the same radio program, Madsen emphasized that NATO should safeguard its own member territories through diplomatic channels and international cooperation. In his view, dialogue with Washington within the NATO framework is more effective than escalating militarily.
Madsen pointed to recent support from both Republican and Democratic senators in the U.S. who publicly reaffirmed Greenland’s constitutional bond with Denmark. He said the Danish government is already taking initiatives to strengthen the cooperation within the Realm, signaling that the situation is being handled seriously but through peaceful methods.
Underlying Tensions in the Arctic
This dispute reflects a growing unease across the Arctic region, where the climate crisis, resource exploration, and security interests intertwine. Greenland’s strategic importance gives it global attention far beyond its small population. For Denmark, maintaining sovereignty there is about more than territory; it represents the country’s role within the Western alliance and its historic responsibility toward the island’s people.
Without a doubt, the intersection of Danish caution and U.S. ambition ensures Greenland will stay central to future political debate in both Copenhagen and Washington.
Sources and References
The Danish Dream: Why Was Greenland Granted Autonomy From Denmark?
The Danish Dream: Best Immigration Lawyers in Denmark for Foreigners
DR: Jarlov Langer Ud Efter Trump Til CNN: Det Er USA Der Truer Grønlands Sikkerhed Ikke Kina Eller Rusland
