Denmark has summoned the top U.S. diplomat in Copenhagen after reports surfaced alleging covert American influence campaigns in Greenland aimed at promoting secession.

At a Glance

• Denmark summoned the U.S. charge d’affaires in response to espionage claims
• Danish broadcaster DR cited anonymous sources alleging covert U.S. operations
• Alleged campaigns reportedly aimed to sway Greenlandic public opinion
• Danish intelligence previously warned of foreign influence in Greenland
• U.S. role remains unclear, with no official comment from Washington

Diplomatic Tensions Emerge

Denmark’s Foreign Minister Lars Løkke Rasmussen has called in the U.S. charge d’affaires following reports that unidentified American nationals have been carrying out covert operations in Greenland. The move underscores Copenhagen’s serious concern over any unauthorized foreign influence in the autonomous Arctic territory, which remains part of the Kingdom of Denmark.

The allegations surfaced through Denmark’s national broadcaster DR, which reported that unnamed sources claimed these operations sought to “infiltrate” Greenlandic society and encourage its separation from Denmark, with the apparent goal of aligning the island more closely with U.S. interests.

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Intelligence Warnings Revisited

The Danish Security and Intelligence Service (PET) had previously issued warnings that Greenland was increasingly becoming the focus of “various kinds of influence campaigns.” While no countries were named at the time, the new revelations have intensified scrutiny on Washington’s role and intent in the region.

Greenland’s strategic importance has surged in recent years due to its natural resources and geopolitical positioning. A 2019 proposal by former U.S. President Donald Trump to purchase the island from Denmark was widely dismissed as unrealistic but revealed underlying strategic ambitions from the United States. These new allegations have reignited concerns that such ambitions may not have entirely disappeared.

Greenland’s Global Spotlight

Greenland, while part of the Kingdom of Denmark, holds home-rule status and has been gradually asserting greater autonomy. It has its own government and manages most domestic affairs, though Copenhagen retains control over foreign policy, defense, and security. The U.S. has maintained a military presence on the island for decades, notably at Thule Air Base, but has no formal territorial claim.

If proven, the influence efforts would mark a dramatic escalation in foreign involvement in Greenlandic affairs. While DR’s sources did not confirm who the operatives were working for, the implication of American ties has prompted a swift diplomatic response.

Rasmussen labeled any attempts to interfere in Danish internal matters as “unacceptable,” reaffirming Denmark’s sovereignty over Greenland. The U.S. State Department has yet to issue a public response.

Sources

DR
Reuters
BBC
Al Jazeera
The Guardian