A senior Greenlandic lawmaker has strongly rejected claims that NATO can negotiate Greenland’s political future, following remarks by former U.S. President Donald Trump suggesting a possible “framework deal” involving the Arctic territory.
Aaja Chemnitz Larsen, a Greenlandic member of Denmark’s parliament, said NATO has no legal mandate to discuss Greenland’s sovereignty, mineral rights, or political status.
Trump’s Claims Spark Controversy
The comments came after Trump said he had discussed a future deal on Greenland with NATO Secretary General Mark Rutte during the World Economic Forum in Davos. Trump suggested the talks included Arctic security, mineral access, and U.S. missile defense projects.
Greenland and Denmark Reaffirm Sovereignty
Denmark’s Prime Minister Mette Frederiksen said any discussion about Greenland must involve Greenlandic leaders directly and stressed that NATO has no role in negotiating territorial control.
Greenland’s Prime Minister also announced a press conference to address the issue, repeating that Greenland remains a self-governing territory within the Kingdom of Denmark and will not accept foreign pressure.
Growing Arctic Tensions
The episode highlights rising geopolitical tension in the Arctic, where melting ice has increased access to shipping routes and valuable minerals. The U.S., Russia, China, and European nations are all expanding their strategic interest in the region.