Denmark Calls in US Diplomat Amid Allegations of Influence Campaign Targeting Greenland

Denmark has called for an urgent meeting with the U.S. charge d’affaires over claims of a foreign influence campaign in Greenland. Reports say that at least three American men with connections to Donald Trump are attempting to sway public opinion in the Arctic territory.

According to Danish media, these individuals are accused of trying to infiltrate Greenlandic society, which the Danish government sees as a serious threat. Lars Løkke Rasmussen, Denmark’s foreign minister, described the actions as “totally unacceptable.” He emphasized the need to understand the situation, stating that both Greenland and Denmark deserve to know what they are facing.

Prime Minister Mette Frederiksen echoed these concerns, stressing that any interference in Greenland’s democracy is not acceptable. She noted the unusual step of involving Denmark’s highest-ranking civil servant in the meeting, showcasing the seriousness of the claims. The U.S. ambassador to Denmark has not yet been confirmed, which led to this urgent meeting with the charge d’affaires in his absence.

The alleged actions include creating lists of Trump supporters in Greenland and advising on narratives that portray Denmark negatively in U.S. media. This follows a history of Trump voicing interest in buying Greenland, which has added tension between the two nations.

Interestingly, the situation has historical roots. Greenland was a Danish colony and continues to be part of the Kingdom of Denmark, though it now enjoys significant autonomy. Its foreign and security policies are still overseen by Copenhagen. This complex relationship is now under scrutiny as foreign interest in Greenland increases.

In recent months, several prominent Americans have visited Nuuk, Greenland’s capital, suggesting rising interest in the territory’s resources, especially its minerals. For instance, Drew Horn, an ex-Trump advisor, mentioned that the U.S. could invest “tens of billions” in Greenland. Such comments have made Greenlandic leaders more wary of foreign involvement.

Greenland’s foreign minister, Vivian Motzfeldt, remarked that she wasn’t aware of any shady dealings. Meanwhile, Aaja Chemnitz, a member of the Greenlandic political party Inuit Ataqatigiit, pointed out that attempts at influence from outside parties are not new but have ramped up following Trump’s administration.

User reactions on social media reflect a mix of skepticism and caution about U.S. involvement, with some Greenlanders feeling they are under constant scrutiny from foreign powers. Opinions vary widely, but many agree that the U.S. approach has made them more wary than before.

As this diplomatic tension unfolds, both governments will need to address the balance between influence and respect for local governance. The U.S. State Department has stated that while American citizens may have interests in Greenland, the government itself does not control their actions.

This ongoing situation highlights not just a struggle for influence but also a deeper debate about sovereignty and the rights of the Greenlandic people to shape their own future.



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