In a direct response to U.S. President Donald Trump’s recent revival of proposals to acquire Greenland, Danish politician Rasmus Jarlov made a clear statement on the matter. Jarlov, a Conservative Member of Parliament and Chairman of Denmark’s Defence Committee, emphasized Denmark’s unwavering stance on maintaining sovereignty over the territory.
The context stems from Trump’s expressed interest in purchasing or otherwise obtaining control of Greenland, citing strategic military needs, mineral resources, and concerns over influence from countries like Russia and China. This idea, first floated during Trump’s previous term, has been rebuffed by Danish officials, leading to public exchanges on the topic.
In his statement, Jarlov said: “Denmark will not hand over Greenland even if the USA threatens us with nuclear weapons. I am not saying this to stump our chest and try to be tough. We are small and no match for the USA. We know that. But we are not doing it under any circumstances.”
He further clarified Denmark’s position on cooperation, noting that the country remains open to U.S. involvement in specific areas. “The door is open for military bases, mining or whatever the USA would like. It always has been,” Jarlov added. However, he drew a firm line on governance: “Sovereignty and running the country is completely out of the question. Greenlanders should run the country and Denmark will continue to assist them with what they want.”
Jarlov’s remarks underscore Denmark’s commitment to supporting Greenland’s self-governance while rejecting any transfer of control, even under pressure. As Chairman of the Defence Committee and a former Minister of Business, his role positions him centrally in discussions involving national security and international relations.
