During a press briefing after Wednesday’s talks, Rasmussen emphasized that Denmark’s territorial integrity and Greenlanders’ right to self-determination are non-negotiable. He noted that Copenhagen and Nuuk, Greenland’s capital, are closely aligned on the matter. “The idea of transferring sovereignty is not on the table for Denmark,” he told reporters, adding that both governments nevertheless plan to continue engaging with Washington on economic and security cooperation.
Matzfeldt delivered a similar message, saying Greenland values its long-standing relationship with the United States, especially on defense and trade. She cautioned, however, that closer cooperation should not be interpreted as a willingness to relinquish control. “We want to expand collaboration, but we do not intend to be owned by another country,” she said.
The meeting in Washington is the latest in a series of exchanges triggered by renewed U.S. interest in Greenland. The island, which holds significant mineral deposits and occupies a strategic position in the Arctic, hosts Thule Air Base, a key element of the North American aerospace defense network. A 1951 bilateral agreement allows the United States to operate the facility under Danish sovereignty.
American officials argue that bringing Greenland formally into the United States would streamline defense planning and open new opportunities for resource development. Danish and Greenlandic leaders counter that the island’s autonomy—strengthened by the 2009 Self-Government Act—already provides a framework for economic advancement without changing national borders.
Experts note that any transfer of territory would require not only bilateral agreement but also legislative approval and consultation with the Greenlandic population. A 2022 report from the Central Intelligence Agency World Factbook observes that Greenlanders have growing authority over domestic affairs, although Denmark retains responsibility for foreign policy and defense.
Wednesday’s discussion also touched on areas where convergence appears possible. Rasmussen said the delegations reviewed prospects for joint climate research, expanded trade in raw materials and continued cooperation through NATO. Rubio, speaking briefly to pool reporters, indicated that the United States is prepared to deepen ties in technology and infrastructure irrespective of the sovereignty question.
Despite the unresolved dispute, diplomats characterized the tone of the meeting as constructive. Both sides agreed to establish working groups tasked with identifying projects that can proceed under the existing political framework. The first of these groups is expected to convene in Copenhagen next month.
Greenland’s government intends to hold consultations with its parliament, the Inatsisartut, before the next trilateral session. Matzfeldt said outcome documents from those talks would guide Nuuk’s position in subsequent negotiations with Washington.
For the United States, the issue remains closely linked to broader Arctic strategy. The region is experiencing heightened attention as receding ice opens new shipping routes and access to untapped resources. U.S. officials have argued that acquiring Greenland would enhance national security and reinforce the country’s influence in the High North.
Denmark, however, views the matter primarily through the lens of international law and indigenous rights. Copenhagen insists that any arrangement must respect Greenlandic self-government and the current constitutional structure. Rasmussen reiterated that point repeatedly, signaling little room for compromise on sovereignty even as technical cooperation progresses.
The parties did not announce a schedule for future high-level meetings, though both embassies confirmed that working-level contacts will continue. Until a formal agenda is set, the gap between Washington’s aspiration for ownership and Copenhagen’s refusal to cede control is likely to persist.
Crédito da imagem: Getty Images
