In brief
Denmark's foreign minister has summoned the U.S. charge d'affaires in Copenhagen after reports of covert U.S. operations to influence Greenland's political landscape. Claims suggest efforts were made to encourage Greenland to seek independence from Denmark, amid Denmark's warnings of ongoing influence campaigns. Tensions have escalated due to President Trump's past comments about annexing Greenland and accusations from U.S. officials regarding American interests in the territory's resources.
Denmark's foreign minister has summoned the top US diplomat in Copenhagen, following a report that American citizens have been conducting covert operations in Greenland.
Denmark's public broadcaster DR quoted sources as saying the aim was to infiltrate Greenland's society and promote its secession from Denmark to the US, although it was unable to clarify who the men were working for.
Danish intelligence warned Greenland was being targeted by various kinds of influence campaigns.
Foreign Minister Lars Lokke Rasmussen stated that any attempt to interfere in the internal affairs of the Kingdom [of Denmark] will be unacceptable, leading to the summoning of the US charge d'affaires.
The BBC has approached the US embassy and the state department for comment.
US President Trump has expressed interest in annexing Greenland, accusing Denmark of underinvesting in the territory. On a recent visit to Greenland, Danish Prime Minister Mette Frederiksen reminded the US that you cannot annex another country.
Rasmussen noted that the government is aware of ongoing foreign interest in Greenland's future.
Denmark, a NATO member, has long considered the US a close ally, yet has been taken aback by Trump's ambitions regarding Greenland. The US currently has no ambassador in Copenhagen, which may further complicate diplomatic relations.
Denmark's PET security and intelligence service indicated that these influence campaigns could seek to create discord between Denmark and Greenland.
Rasmussen had previously summoned the US charge d'affaires in response to indications that US intelligence was directed towards Greenland.
DR's report discussed one American's visit to Nuuk, aiming to compile a list of Greenlanders supportive of US interests.
The situation remains sensitive as Greenland continues to navigate its relationship within the Kingdom of Denmark amid claims of external influence.
