Denmark, U.S. clash over Greenland in frank White House talks

Denmark says deep differences with the United States remain over Greenland’s future, despite what officials described as frank but constructive talks in Washington.

Danish Foreign Minister Lars Løkke Rasmussen told reporters that a “fundamental disagreement” persists after meetings with U.S. Vice President JD Vance and Secretary of State Marco Rubio at the White House.

Speaking alongside Greenland’s Foreign Minister Vivian Motzfeldt, Rasmussen said it was “absolutely not necessary” for the U.S. to acquire Greenland and stressed that the island faces no “instant threat” from Russia or China.

His remarks come after President Donald Trump again argued that Greenland is vital for U.S. national security and warned of growing influence from Russia and China. Both Greenland’s leadership and Denmark, a Nato ally, have firmly rejected any idea of U.S. control over the semi-autonomous territory.

Rasmussen said the talks focused on long-term Arctic security, but acknowledged that the two sides see the future of Greenland differently. Still, he called the meeting productive and confirmed that a high-level working group will be formed to search for common ground.

“The task is to address American security concerns while respecting Denmark’s territorial integrity and Greenlanders’ right to self-determination,” he said.

Greenland’s Foreign Minister Vivian Motzfeldt underlined that Greenland wants close cooperation with Washington, but not ownership by the U.S.

“We can be strong allies without being owned,” she said.

Rasmussen also rejected claims of an immediate Chinese or Russian threat, noting there is currently no Chinese presence in Greenland. He added that Denmark is ready to further strengthen its security role in the Arctic, pointing to increased military spending and long-standing agreements that already give the U.S. broad access to Greenland.

Despite the disagreements, both Denmark and Greenland said they remain committed to working closely with the United States.

“We are among America’s closest allies,” Rasmussen said, adding that continued dialogue was the only way forward.

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