WASHINGTON (AP) — A bipartisan U.S. congressional delegation is traveling to Copenhagen this week to demonstrate unity with Denmark as President Donald Trump continues to publicly discuss the possibility of acquiring Greenland, a semiautonomous territory of the NATO ally.
Congressional Delegation to Meet with Danish, Greenlandic Officials
Sen. Chris Coons, D-Del., is leading the trip, which includes at least nine members of Congress, including Republican Sen. Thom Tillis of North Carolina. The group will meet with high-level Danish and Greenlandic government officials and business leaders in Copenhagen on Friday and Saturday.
Coons told the Associated Press that the delegation aims to convey that “we understand the value of the partnership we have long had with them, and in no way seek to interfere in their internal discussions about the status of Greenland.”
Coons emphasized the longstanding alliance between the United States and Denmark, noting Denmark’s support in the aftermath of the Sept. 11, 2001 attacks and years of collaboration on shared priorities. “As long as we have been constructive and respectful allies, the Danes have been open arms with us on security and investment and the region,” he said. He added that the recent statements by the president have shifted the discussion from casual to serious, making it important to reaffirm support for NATO and the alliance.
The delegation considered traveling to Greenland but ultimately decided against it due to logistical challenges, according to a person familiar with the trip planning.
Trump Reiterates Interest in Greenland Acquisition
Tensions have increased this month as Trump and his administration have pursued the issue, with the White House considering various options, including the use of military force, to acquire the Arctic island. Trump reiterated his desire to “take Greenland” on Sunday, suggesting that Russia or China would otherwise, in comments aboard Air Force One.
He stated a preference for “making a deal” for the territory, but affirmed, “one way or the other, we’re going to have Greenland.” Danish and Greenlandic envoys are expected in Washington this week to meet with Secretary of State Marco Rubio.
China responded on Monday, stating that the U.S. should not use other countries as a “pretext” to pursue its interests in Greenland and that its activities in the Arctic comply with international law. Chinese Foreign Ministry spokesperson Mao Ning said China’s Arctic activities aim to promote peace, stability, and sustainable development.
Coons said the trip also intends to emphasize that “there is no imminent threat to Greenland from the Chinese and the Russians.”
Danish Prime Minister Mette Frederiksen has warned that an American takeover of Greenland would mark the end of NATO. Greenland Prime Minister Jens-Frederik Nielsen and other party leaders issued a joint statement reiterating that Greenland’s future should be determined by its people and calling for an end to “the United States’ contempt for our country.” Nielsen also stated that Greenland is part of the Kingdom of Denmark and within NATO’s security framework, emphasizing that its actions are based on international law.
China declared itself a “near-Arctic state” in 2018 and has announced plans for a “Polar Silk Road” as part of its Belt and Road Initiative.
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