Danish Foreign Minister Lars Løkke Rasmussen met with U.S. Vice President JD Vance, Secretary of State Marco Rubio, and Greenlandic Foreign Minister Vivian Motzfeldt. While Rasmussen described the discussions as “frank and constructive,” he stressed that fundamental differences remain unresolved. At the heart of the disagreement is Greenland’s strategic role in the Arctic and how security decisions should be coordinated. Rasmussen reiterated Denmark’s position: Greenland’s sovereignty and political status are non-negotiable.
The island’s location, vast natural resources, and access to emerging Arctic shipping routes have made it a focus for global attention, particularly as climate change reshapes the region. U.S. officials have emphasized Greenland’s importance for defense strategy, including early-warning systems and missile defense considerations. Meanwhile, Denmark maintains that any decisions affecting Greenland must involve the island’s elected government and respect its self-rule under Danish sovereignty.
Following the meetings, Denmark and the United States agreed to form a joint working group to enhance Arctic security cooperation. Rasmussen clarified that participation in the group does not indicate any willingness to revisit questions of sovereignty. Danish officials also announced plans to strengthen their military presence in the Arctic, including expanded patrols, exercises, and coordination with allies, presenting these measures as precautionary and defensive rather than provocative.
European partners are also taking a more active role. Sweden confirmed its armed forces would participate in joint Arctic exercises with Denmark, focusing on cold-weather operations and logistics. Norway announced similar limited cooperation efforts. German officials publicly reaffirmed support for Denmark’s position, stressing that Greenland’s status must be respected under international law.
Despite the ongoing differences, both Denmark and the United States have emphasized that the disagreement does not threaten broader relations. Officials on both sides highlighted their long history of cooperation, particularly through NATO, and shared interest in preventing instability in the Arctic.
Greenland’s leaders have also spoken on the matter, emphasizing that any security arrangements must respect local autonomy and interests. As melting ice opens new shipping lanes and exposes natural resources, Greenland’s strategic importance will likely continue to grow.
For now, diplomacy remains the focus. The joint working group will continue discussions, NATO exercises will proceed, and public statements are carefully balanced to reflect firmness without escalation.
While the conversation remains unresolved, Denmark is committed to defending Greenland’s sovereignty, the United States is determined to safeguard its Arctic interests, and Greenland continues to occupy a central role in shaping the future of Arctic security.