Denmark Summons US Envoy Over Alleged Trump-Linked Interference in Greenland
In a move that underscores rising tensions between NATO allies, Denmark’s foreign minister summoned the top US diplomat in Copenhagen on Wednesday, August 27, 2025, following reports of covert influence operations in Greenland allegedly involving individuals connected to President Donald Trump. The Danish government, citing concerns over foreign meddling in the semi-autonomous Arctic territory’s affairs, demanded explanations amid claims that the efforts aimed to weaken ties between Denmark and Greenland while promoting secession and closer US alignment. This diplomatic rebuke highlights the ongoing rift over Trump’s persistent interest in acquiring the mineral-rich island, which he has not ruled out seizing by force.
Reports of Covert Influence Operations
Danish public broadcaster DR broke the story, revealing that at least three American nationals with ties to Trump have been conducting clandestine activities in Greenland. According to eight unnamed sources from Danish government, security services, Greenland, and the US, one individual compiled lists of Greenlanders supportive of US overtures and those opposed to Trump, while soliciting local input on scandals that could portray Denmark negatively in American media. The other two reportedly sought to build networks with politicians, business leaders, and residents to foster discord and advance pro-US sentiments. DR noted it could not confirm if the men were acting independently or under official directives, but emphasized that Danish authorities are monitoring them closely. The operations are seen as an attempt to exploit existing debates over Greenland’s independence to undermine Danish sovereignty.
Danish Government’s Response and Diplomatic Summon
Foreign Minister Lars Løkke Rasmussen issued a stern statement, affirming Denmark’s awareness of foreign interest in Greenland and declaring any interference in the Kingdom’s internal affairs “completely unacceptable.” He instructed the Foreign Ministry to summon US Chargé d’Affaires Mark Stroh—the senior diplomat in the absence of an ambassador—for an urgent meeting, describing it as a “preventive conversation” to clarify the allegations. Prime Minister Mette Frederiksen echoed the sentiment, taking the claims “very seriously” and noting the US’s lack of a clear denial as particularly troubling. Denmark’s Security and Intelligence Service (PET) warned that Greenland remains a target for such campaigns, which could involve disinformation or exploiting disputes to sow division between Copenhagen and Nuuk. PET has bolstered its presence on the island in collaboration with local authorities.
US Reaction: Dismissal and Reaffirmation of Ties
The US State Department confirmed the meeting between Stroh and Danish officials, describing it as “productive” and reiterating the “strong ties” among the US, Denmark, and Greenland. However, it declined to comment on the actions of private US citizens. A White House official, speaking anonymously, downplayed the concerns, stating, “We think the Danes need to calm down.” The embassy emphasized ongoing cooperation for security and prosperity but avoided addressing the specifics of DR’s reporting. This response has drawn criticism from Danish experts, who view it as indicative of a “hostile attitude” from the Trump administration toward a key ally.
Historical Context of US Interest in Greenland
The summons marks the second such action this year, following a May 2025 incident where Denmark protested reports of heightened US intelligence focus on Greenland’s independence movement and resource attitudes. Trump’s fixation dates back to his first term, revived upon his 2025 return to office, framing Greenland’s acquisition as essential for national security amid Arctic competition with Russia and China. The island’s strategic location, rare earth minerals, and potential oil reserves make it a geopolitical prize, but both Danish and Greenlandic leaders insist it is not for sale. Polls show most of Greenland’s 57,000 residents favor independence from Denmark but reject US annexation. Recent visits by US figures like Vice President JD Vance have been condemned as exerting “unacceptable pressure.”
Broader Implications for NATO and Arctic Relations
Experts describe the episode as a “diplomatic yellow card,” unprecedented in Danish-US relations and signaling strained ties between the allies. Denmark, a NATO member, has rallied European support to counter US ambitions, including a $1.5 billion investment in Greenland’s protection. The allegations come amid other frictions, such as a US order halting a Danish-led wind farm project off Rhode Island. Greenlandic opposition figures like Pele Broberg dismissed the claims as overblown, arguing foreign influence is routine, but emphasized that decisions on the island’s future rest with its people. As Arctic melting opens new routes and resources, the incident underscores escalating great-power rivalries in the region, with Denmark vowing to safeguard its sovereignty.