Denmark Officially Summons US Ambassador Over Spying Allegations on Greenland

Denmark officially summons US ambassador following reports that American intelligence agencies were ordered to conduct surveillance on Greenland. The Danish government, led by Foreign Minister Lars Lokke Rasmussen, expressed deep concerns over the alleged espionage, stating that “we do not spy on friends”.

The controversy erupted after a Wall Street Journal report claimed that the CIA, NSA, and Defense Intelligence Agency were directed to gather intelligence on Greenland’s independence movement and potential US resource extraction. The revelation has sparked diplomatic tensions between Denmark and the United States, with Copenhagen demanding clarifications from Washington.

Why Is the US Allegedly Spying on Greenland, a Danish Territory?

Greenland, a semi-autonomous Danish territory, has long been of strategic interest to the US due to its location in the Arctic and rich mineral resources. The report suggests that the Trump administration has been actively monitoring Greenland’s political landscape, particularly its push for independence.

• US intelligence agencies were reportedly tasked with identifying Greenlanders who support American objectives.
• Washington is allegedly interested in Greenland’s rare earth minerals, which are crucial for technology and defense industries.
• Trump has repeatedly expressed interest in acquiring Greenland, even stating that the US “needs it very badly” for national security.

Denmark has strongly opposed any US attempts to influence Greenland’s sovereignty, reinforcing that only Greenlanders can decide their future.

Denmark’s Response & Diplomatic Fallout

Denmark’s Foreign Minister Lars Lokke Rasmussen has called the allegations “disturbing”, stating that the US must clarify its intentions regarding Greenland.

• The Danish government has summoned US acting ambassador Jennifer Hall Godfrey for an urgent meeting.
• Denmark’s intelligence agency (PET) is monitoring the situation, citing increased espionage threats against Greenland.
• Greenland’s political leaders have condemned the alleged spying, reaffirming their commitment to self-governance.

The US embassy in Copenhagen has declined to comment, while the National Security Council insists that Washington is only concerned about Arctic security.

Denmark Officially Summons US Ambassador, Global Reactions & Strategic Implications

The allegations have triggered international concerns, with several nations weighing in on the matter:

• The European Union has urged transparency, calling for diplomatic resolution between Denmark and the US.
• China, which has economic interests in Greenland, has criticized the US for interfering in Arctic affairs.
• Russia has warned that increased US surveillance in the Arctic could lead to geopolitical instability.

Meanwhile, Greenland’s independence movement has gained renewed attention, with local leaders demanding greater autonomy from Denmark.

Conclusion

Denmark’s decision to summon the US ambassador marks a significant diplomatic escalation, highlighting growing tensions over Greenland’s strategic importance. As Washington faces scrutiny over its alleged espionage, the future of US-Denmark relations remains uncertain.

With Greenland’s independence movement gaining momentum, the controversy could reshape Arctic geopolitics, influencing global security and resource competition.

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