“It’s very disrespectful.” This sentiment reflects the feelings of Danish veteran Gerth Sloth Berthelsen. Growing up in Greenland and serving with American forces in 1996, he felt betrayed by recent statements from the U.S. administration. The anger isn’t just about words; it stems from a long history of shared military experiences between Denmark and the U.S. During conflicts in Iraq and Afghanistan, Danish soldiers fought alongside Americans, making the current tensions even more painful.
Recently, President Trump made headlines when he claimed ownership of Greenland. The abrupt shift in tone left many feeling anxious and uncertain. Even when he later backtracked, the damage was done. Europeans are warning that this kind of threatening behavior can fracture alliances, even if a resolution appears on the horizon.
In both Nuuk and Copenhagen, there’s a palpable tension. Berthelsen expressed shock at the hostility coming from a nation he once thought of as an ally. “When it comes from an ally, it’s not understandable how that even can happen,” he said. This sentiment resonates with many veterans who served alongside U.S. forces, raising concerns about respect for their sacrifices.
The history of Danish involvement in U.S.-led operations is significant. Since 2001, Denmark has lost 41 soldiers in Afghanistan—around eight in Iraq—making their sacrifices particularly severe given their small population of about 6 million. Those numbers bring heavy weight to Berthelsen’s words about feeling disrespected.
Another veteran, Salik Augustinussen, voiced his distress through an open letter to the American populace, reminding them that Denmark stood shoulder to shoulder with the U.S. after the tragedies of September 11. His warning about threats to Greenland feels like a personal attack, citing the deep-rooted connections between American and Greenlandic soldiers. The stark reminder is that NATO’s Article 5 has only been invoked once before, in defense of the United States during those attacks.
The rapid shifts in U.S. policy, such as a proposed military presence in Greenland, coupled with a history of collective defense, create an uneasy atmosphere. Experts have noted that effective alliances rely on trust and mutual respect. When one nation undermines the foundational principles of cooperation, it risks unraveling years of partnership.
Despite these tensions, conversations about future military cooperation between Denmark and the U.S. continue. Opinions within the European Union reveal cautious optimism, but many leaders warn that the U.S.’s recent conduct has already affected international relations. The meeting between Trump and NATO officials hinted at a future deal, but specifics remain unclear.
Public response, particularly from veterans on social media, highlights discontent with U.S. government actions. Many former soldiers from European nations have taken to various platforms to remind American leaders of their sacrifices in conflicts such as Afghanistan. This growing frustration emphasizes the weight of shared history and the consequences of perceived betrayal from a partner.
If negotiations evolve toward solid agreements, continued transparency and respect will be key. As discussions unfold, the past reminds us that the bonds forged through shared sacrifice should not be easily dismissed.
