Sweden Criticizes US Rhetoric on Greenland and Denmark

Sweden condemned what Prime Minister Ulf Kristersson described as "threatening rhetoric" from the US government regarding Greenland and Denmark, a traditional ally of the United States.

Comments from the Swedish Prime Minister

During a conference on Swedish defense, Kristersson stated:
"The United States should express gratitude to Denmark, which has been a loyal ally over the years."
He emphasized that Sweden, along with the Nordic countries, the Baltic states, and several major European nations, stand with Denmark. He noted that any potential American appropriation of Greenland would constitute a violation of international law and could encourage similar actions by other countries, which he termed a "dangerous course."

International Reactions

Earlier, French Foreign Minister Jean-Noël Barrot urged the United States to cease its coercive tactics to ensure Denmark's control over Greenland. Repeated statements from former US President Donald Trump, who called for American control over Greenland, are viewed as necessary for US security in light of threats from China and Russia. Trump has accused Denmark of neglecting the protection of the Arctic island and its investment in its mineral resources and strategic location.

Position of Greenland and Denmark

The people of Greenland and their political leadership reject any notion of the island becoming American territory, asserting that its future should be determined by its own inhabitants. Since 1951, a defense agreement between the United States and Denmark allows American troops to operate on Greenlandic territory with prior notification to local authorities.