Copenhagen (Brussels Morning Newspaper) – Danish Prime Minister Mette Frederiksen said on January 28, 2025, that political leaders in Europe and beyond have offered full support to preserve respect for international borders.
“The clear message from friends in the Nordic countries and Europe, and also outside Europe, is that there must, of course, be respect for territories and the sovereignty of states. This is crucial for the international community we have built together since the Second World War,” Frederiksen said.
Danish Prime Minister Mette Frederiksen met European leaders today, January 28, 2025, on concerns over President Donald Trump’s renewed interest in taking Greenland.
What was discussed in Frederiksen’s meeting with European leaders?
In Berlin, Frederiksen and German Chancellor Olaf Scholz discussed the broader European security landscape with a strong accent on the need for a strong and unified response to external threats; although they did not address Trump or Greenland directly, Scholz reminded the audience of the principle that “borders may not be moved by force,” signifying a sign of solidarity on territorial integrity.
After her discussions in Germany, Frederiksen was to meet with French President Emmanuel Macron in Paris. The discussions were to revolve around consolidating European alliances while ensuring that the sovereignty of Denmark over Greenland was respected amid increased pressure from the U.S.
In Brussels, Frederiksen met with NATO Secretary-General Mark Rutte to discuss the role of NATO in maintaining security in the Arctic region and how collective defense strategies are important, especially in the light of potential threats.
What are the geopolitical implications of Trump’s Greenland interest?
The backdrop for these talks was Trump’s contention that the purchase of Greenland is crucial for U.S. national security. He has refused to rule out using military force or economic pressure in pursuit of the goal, forcing Denmark to turn to European allies for defense. There is a feeling of growing political tensions over what the implications could be for Donald Trump’s pursuit of Greenland in terms of geo-politics, and the sense of a coordinated European response being necessary.
