Denmark Ignites Diplomatic Firestorm, Summons US Envoy Over Alleged Covert Trump Meddling in Greenland

A diplomatic firestorm has erupted between long-standing allies, as Denmark dramatically summoned the highest-ranking US diplomat in Copenhagen to confront explosive allegations of covert American interference in Greenland's affairs. Reports from reputable German media outlets, Süddeutsche Zeitung and NDR, have cast a long, unsettling shadow, suggesting the Trump administration engaged in clandestine efforts to influence the autonomous Danish territory, raising serious questions about trust and sovereignty.

The core of the controversy centers on claims that, in late 2019 and early 2020, the US sought to establish a consulate in Greenland – not for routine diplomatic functions, but allegedly as a front for covert operations.

These clandestine efforts were reportedly aimed at securing US interests and countering the growing influence of Russia and China in the strategically vital Arctic region. This revelation comes just months after former President Donald Trump's infamous, public offer to purchase Greenland, an idea that was met with widespread incredulity and rejection by Denmark, causing a significant diplomatic spat at the time.

The reports allege that the Trump administration, through its then-ambassador to Denmark, Carla Sands, explored various avenues for exerting influence.

This included proposals for a financial package for Greenland and discussions with a private security company regarding a potential security presence – actions that Danish authorities view as a direct and unacceptable infringement on their sovereign territory and Greenland's self-governance. The shift from a blunt, public acquisition attempt to alleged covert operations has deeply troubled Copenhagen.

Danish Foreign Minister Lars Løkke Rasmussen wasted no time, calling in the US Chargé d'Affaires, Lino Gutierrez, to demand urgent clarification.

Across the political spectrum in Denmark, politicians have expressed outrage and called for full transparency. "Any attempt to secretly meddle in Denmark's internal affairs, or in Greenland, is totally unacceptable," declared Martin Lidegaard, a prominent Social Liberal MP and former foreign minister.

Soren Espersen, of the nationalist Danish People's Party, went further, stating, "If these reports are true, then it is an act of war." Such strong rhetoric underscores the gravity of the accusations and the profound sense of betrayal felt by some Danish officials.

In response, the US State Department has trod a careful line.

While acknowledging the United States' robust and public engagement with Greenland – citing its establishment of a consulate in 2020 and its commitment to the Arctic – it vehemently denies any involvement in covert activities. A State Department spokesperson emphasized that the US has "publicly increased its diplomatic and economic engagement with Greenland in recent years," but explicitly stated, "We are not aware of any covert attempts to influence Greenland’s foreign or security policy decision-making." This distinction between overt diplomatic outreach and alleged clandestine operations is central to the ongoing dispute.

The escalating tensions highlight the immense geopolitical importance of Greenland.

With its vast natural resources, strategic location for shipping lanes, and military installations, Greenland is a critical piece in the broader Arctic puzzle. As global powers vie for influence in the rapidly changing Arctic, allegations of covert operations threaten to undermine the long-standing trust and cooperation among NATO allies, potentially reshaping the delicate balance of power in the High North.

The diplomatic fallout from these revelations will undoubtedly test the resilience of the US-Danish relationship and demand greater transparency in international relations.