Denmark Takes Action Against US Spy Report on Greenland

Rasmussen's worries stem from reports that US agencies were directed to monitor Greenland amid potential resource exploitation and political movements.

Denmark's Foreign Minister Lars Løkke Rasmussen has announced plans to summon the US ambassador following troubling allegations reported by The Wall Street Journal. According to the report, US intelligence agencies have been instructed to prioritize monitoring the semi-autonomous territory of Greenland, especially regarding its independence movement and potential mineral resource extraction.

Rasmussen expressed significant concern about this revelation, stating, "We do not spy on friends," and indicated that the situation merited a serious discussion with the acting US ambassador at the Danish foreign ministry. "It is somewhat disturbing," he said, adding that the lack of strong denial from US officials is troubling.

Tulsi Gabbard, the Director of National Intelligence, challenged the report, accusing The Wall Street Journal of undermining President Trump by leaking classified information. While she did not deny the essence of the report, she framed the newspaper’s actions as a violation of laws that protect national security.

The Danish Security and Intelligence Service (PET) acknowledged awareness of heightened US interest in Greenland but did not provide specific comments on the spying allegations. The agency noted that the increasing international attention on Greenland, particularly regarding espionage, posed an elevated threat to both the island and Denmark.

Amidst this diplomatic tension, President Trump has made controversial remarks about Greenland, claiming the US "needs Greenland very badly," and suggesting that military options might not be off the table. Trump has consistently advocated for increasing US control over the island, referring to the land as crucial for international security in various statements.

Additionally, the visit by Vice-President JD Vance to a US military base in Greenland earlier this year was condemned by Danish Prime Minister Mette Frederiksen, who described it as "completely unacceptable pressure" on the Greenlandic population and politicians. Greenland has a history of seeking independence from Denmark, yet polls indicate that residents do not support transitioning to US governance.

Former President Joe Biden highlighted the absurdity of Trump's claims regarding Greenland during his first interview post-presidency, emphasizing that such talk does not align with American values of democracy and freedom. Greenland, controlled by Denmark for nearly 300 years, currently manages its local administration while Denmark retains control over its foreign and defense policies.