Trump's conversation with Prime Minister of Denmark about Greenland: FT reveals details
Donald Trump, President of the US (photo: Getty Images)
Before his inauguration, Donald Trump had a 45-minute phone conversation with Danish Prime Minister Mette Frederiksen regarding the possibility of purchasing Greenland. The conversation was described as tense and complicated, reports the Financial Times.
According to Western media, during the conversation last week, Trump escalated his threats to take control of Greenland, which caused panic within the Danish government.
While neither leader commented on the phone call, officials close to the situation told FT journalists that it went poorly. According to sources, Trump was described as aggressive and confrontational during the conversation.
"It was horrendous," one official told the Western media.
Another added that Trump was very firm. It was a cold shower for the Danish government.
"Before, it was hard to take it seriously. But I do think it is serious, and potentially very dangerous," one official told the Financial Times.
The sources for Western media also said that Trump's intent was very clear, and that the Danes are now in crisis mode and extremely frightened by this.
"It was a very tough conversation. He threatened specific measures against Denmark such as targeted tariffs," said a former Danish official to FT.
Trump's 'expansionist' intentions regarding Greenland
Before assuming office, Donald Trump repeatedly stated his intention to make Greenland a part of the US. He also hinted at the possibility of using force to persuade Denmark (since the Arctic island is an autonomous part of Denmark) to transfer it.
Greenland's Prime Minister, Múte Egede, advocates for independence and emphasizes that the island's fate should be decided by its people. He also noted that Greenland is interested in strengthening ties with the US but on its terms.
Danish Prime Minister Mette Frederiksen, during her dialogue with Trump, emphasized that Greenland is not for sale, though she acknowledged the significant interest the US has in the island.
Recently, Trump’s allies even introduced a bill regarding the purchase of Greenland. Additionally, Trump's national security advisor, Mike Waltz, stated that the US president is considering various options for controlling Greenland. Trump's administration has also claimed that Greenland is of significant importance for US national security.
On January 24, it became known that Denmark's Foreign Minister Lars Løkke Rasmussen agreed with US Secretary of State Marco Rubio to discuss the Greenland issue at a later time. This followed their 20-minute conversation.
