Danish Prime Minister Condemns US Efforts to Annex Greenland, Advocates for International Law
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Synopsis
Danish PM Mette Frederiksen has condemned the US's attempts to annex Greenland, emphasizing the importance of international law and expressing concerns over pressure from the US. During a press conference, she reaffirmed the significance of sovereignty and territorial integrity for small nations.
Key Takeaways
- Danish PM rejects US annexation efforts.
- International law protects national sovereignty.
- Concerns about US pressure on Denmark and Greenland.
- Strengthened Denmark-Greenland relations highlighted.
- Denmark open to dialogue with the US administration.
Oslo, April 4 (NationPress) Accusing the US of subjecting Denmark and Greenland to pressure and threats, Danish Prime Minister Mette Frederiksen strongly dismissed the US's attempt to annex Greenland, referencing international law.
"You cannot annex other countries -- not even under the pretext of international security," Frederiksen stated at a press conference with Greenlandic officials in Nuuk, the capital of Greenland. "National borders, sovereignty, territorial integrity - these are rooted in international law. These principles were established after World War II so that small countries would not have to fear large ones."
She further expressed her profound concern regarding what she characterized as pressure and threats from the United States. "When you seek to take over part of the Kingdom (of Denmark)'s territory, when we are subjected to pressure and threats by our closest ally, what are we to think about the country we have admired for so many years?" Frederiksen remarked.
The press conference, which was broadcast live by Danish broadcaster DR, took place amid US President Donald Trump's ongoing interest in acquiring Greenland, an autonomous territory of Denmark, as reported by Xinhua news agency.
Mute Egede, the outgoing Greenlandic prime minister, who spoke alongside Frederiksen and the incoming leader Jens-Frederik Nielsen, applauded the Danish prime minister's position and highlighted the advancements in Denmark-Greenland relations in recent years.
He stated that while challenges persist, the two sides are collaborating more closely. "Today's global situation obliges us to work together. Good friends and allies must stand together to defend the values we have long shared in the Western world," he commented.
Despite the strong rhetoric directed at Washington, Frederiksen indicated Denmark's readiness to continue dialogue with the US administration, expressing her openness to future discussions with Trump.
Frederiksen is anticipated to return to Denmark from Greenland on Friday. Her visit comes shortly after US Vice President JD Vance and an American delegation visited Pituffik Space Base in northwest Greenland, formerly known as Thule Base, where Vance criticized Denmark for not doing enough for security in the Arctic or for the well-being of the Greenlandic people.
Just hours before Vance's visit, Greenland announced the establishment of a new autonomous government. Four political parties, representing 23 of the 31 seats in Greenland's parliament, signed a coalition agreement to form the new government. Jens-Frederik Nielsen, chairman of the Demokraatit (Democratic Party), will serve as prime minister.
Greenland, once a Danish colony, became an integral part of the Kingdom of Denmark in 1953. It was granted home rule in 1979, enhancing its autonomy, although Denmark retains control over foreign affairs and defense.
