How Denmark Is Navigating Arctic Security Talks While Defending Greenland’s Sovereignty

Denmark and the United States agree on the importance of Arctic security but remain divided over Greenland’s political status. During high-level meetings in Washington, Danish Foreign Minister Lars Løkke Rasmussen met with U.S. Vice President JD Vance, Secretary of State Marco Rubio, and Greenland’s Foreign Minister Vivian Motzfeldt, confirming that Greenland’s sovereignty is non-negotiable.

U.S. officials continue to stress Greenland’s strategic importance for U.S. national security and Arctic defense, a position repeatedly highlighted by Donald Trump. Denmark, however, insists that any decisions about Greenland’s future must involve its elected government and people, in line with international law.

To manage tensions, both countries agreed to form a working group to continue dialogue while Denmark moves to strengthen its military presence in Greenland through increased NATO cooperation and joint Arctic exercises. Danish officials say security cooperation with Washington will continue, but without compromising Greenland’s right to self-determination.