– Denmark PM warns world order is over
- Both Denmark and Greenland have expressed concerns regarding increased security needs in the Arctic region due to Russia's actions, while reaffirming Greenland's autonomy and resistance to external pressure.
- Danish Prime Minister Mette Frederiksen stated that Denmark is increasing its military presence in greenland, citing the changed geopolitical landscape.
- Increased russian military activity in the Arctic is driving the need for enhanced surveillance.Russia has been reopening Soviet-era military bases and conducting large-scale military exercises in the region.
Greenland and Denmark Respond to arctic security concerns
Table of Contents
Both Denmark and Greenland have expressed concerns regarding increased security needs in the Arctic region due to Russia’s actions, while reaffirming Greenland’s autonomy and resistance to external pressure. As of January 28, 2026, there have been no important changes to these positions.
Danish Prime Minister Mette Frederiksen stated that Denmark is increasing its military presence in greenland, citing the changed geopolitical landscape. The Danish government announced increased defense spending in Greenland in February 2024, focusing on surveillance and infrastructure improvements.
Russia’s Actions and Arctic Surveillance
Increased russian military activity in the Arctic is driving the need for enhanced surveillance.Russia has been reopening Soviet-era military bases and conducting large-scale military exercises in the region. The U.S. department of Defense reported in January 2023 on increased Russian military activity in the Arctic, highlighting concerns about potential challenges to freedom of navigation and security.
Greenland’s Minister of Foreign Affairs, Pele Broberg, echoed these concerns, stating the need for greater security due to Russia’s actions. He emphasized Greenland’s commitment to self-governance and its refusal to yield to foreign influence.
Greenland’s Sovereignty and U.S. Interest
Greenland is a self-governing territory within the Kingdom of Denmark, possessing significant autonomy over its internal affairs. The Greenlandic government website details the country’s self-governance structure. However, Denmark retains duty for foreign affairs and defense.
Former U.S. President Donald Trump previously expressed interest in purchasing Greenland, a proposal overwhelmingly rejected by the Greenlandic population. The BBC reported on Trump’s proposal in August 2019 and the strong opposition from Greenland. In late 2023, Trump claimed to have secured a ”framework” for a future deal, but details remain undisclosed. As of January 28, 2026, no such deal has materialized.
Recent opinion polls continue to demonstrate strong opposition to U.S. control of Greenland, with a majority favoring independence from Denmark. A Verian Group poll conducted in late 2025 showed that 75% of Greenlanders oppose U.S. control, while 60% support independence.
Recent Diplomatic Discussions
Danish Prime Minister Frederiksen and Greenland’s Minister of Foreign Affairs Nielsen recently held talks with German Chancellor Friedrich Merz in Berlin on Tuesday, discussing Arctic security and cooperation. Details of the discussions have not been fully released,but are understood to focus on joint efforts to monitor the Arctic region. The German Chancellor’s website confirmed the meeting on January 23, 2026.