US Congressional Delegation Reassures Denmark Amid Greenland Tensions

Sat Jan 17 2026 16:04:31 GMT+0200 (Eastern European Standard Time)

A bipartisan delegation from the US Congress visits Denmark and Greenland, expressing support and addressing concerns raised by President Trump's controversial remarks regarding Greenland's status.

In a recent visit to Copenhagen, Senator Chris Coons led a bipartisan congressional delegation aimed at reassuring Denmark and Greenland amidst heightened tensions following President Trump's assertions about the US potentially taking control of Greenland. Coons emphasized the respect and partnership between the U.S. and Denmark, countering Trump's divisive rhetoric about tariffs against nations displeased with U.S. claims over the Arctic territory.

COPENHAGEN, Denmark (AP) — As President Donald Trump's threats regarding the acquisition of Greenland escalate, a bipartisan U.S. Congressional delegation has arrived in Denmark to reaffirm support for both Denmark and Greenland. Senator Chris Coons, the delegation leader, expressed concerns that the current rhetoric surrounding Greenland could disrupt the historic goodwill between the U.S. and Denmark.

At a press conference in Copenhagen, Coons emphasized the need to de-escalate tensions, stating, I hope the people of the Kingdom of Denmark do not abandon their faith in the American people. We respect Denmark and NATO significantly for all that we have accomplished together.

The delegation's visit included rallies in Copenhagen and in Nuuk, the capital of Greenland, aimed at showcasing solidarity with the self-governing island amidst ongoing political discourse. Coons' remarks stand in contrast to Trump's controversial comments, where he suggested tariffs could be levied against countries that do not support U.S. claims over Greenland, a territory rich in precious minerals and strategically vital.

There are no current security threats to Greenland, Coons reassured. Trump's claims that China and Russia are pursuing interests in Greenland have contributed to heightened tensions, leading to a robust discourse surrounding the island's future.

Trump's insistence on U.S. control of Greenland has seen no sign of abating, having affirmed recently that any scenario not resulting in U.S. acquisition would be deemed unacceptable.

Furthermore, Trump suggested using tariffs as leverage against nations opposing U.S. intentions regarding Greenland, indicating a troubling shift in foreign relations rhetoric. In response to recent diplomatic meetings involving high-ranking officials from Denmark, Greenland, and the U.S., Coons expressed the critical nature of maintaining strong ally relationships, especially with nations like Denmark, stating, If we cause Danes to question our reliability as a NATO ally, it could set a precedent that discourages other countries from seeking partnerships.

The ongoing discussions portray a complex yet vital dynamic in U.S.-Nordic relations, significantly influenced by Trump's administration's approach to international diplomacy and territorial matters.