New survey reveals Danish doubts on Greenland's security, US role
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A majority of Danes believe Denmark is failing to adequately protect the autonomous territory.
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Homes are illuminated after the sunset in Tasiilaq, Greenland, Friday Aug. 16, 2019.(AP Photo/Felipe Dana, File)
A recent survey by Megafon for Dutch broadcaster TV2 highlights growing concerns among Danes about their government's military commitment to Greenland.
The poll reveals that a majority of Danes believe Denmark is failing to adequately protect the autonomous territory, while nearly half support an increased US military presence on the island.
The survey found that 62% of respondents either "strongly agree" or "mostly agree" that Denmark is not doing enough to safeguard Greenland. In contrast, only 12% believe the government's current efforts are sufficient. Meanwhile, 43% support allowing the US to expand its military presence on the island, compared to 32% who oppose the idea.
US Interest
Greenland has become a focal point of US strategic interests. Earlier this month, US President-elect Donald Trump's National Security Advisor-designate, Mike Waltz, stated that Trump is prepared to consider "all possible options" concerning Greenland, including the use of force. Trump himself has called US control of Greenland "an absolute necessity."
In response, Greenlandic Prime Minister Mute Egede firmly rejected the idea of selling the island, stating, "Greenland is not for sale."
Autonomy and Agreements
Greenland was a colony of Denmark until 1953 but gained self-governance in 2009, allowing it to make independent decisions on domestic matters. However, it remains part of the Kingdom of Denmark. Under current agreements, the US already maintains a military presence in Greenland, which some Greenlandic leaders find acceptable.
Pele Broberg, leader of the opposition Naleraq party and a former foreign minister, commented, "Greenland's citizens would not object to the US strengthening its military presence on the island, since the current agreements allow that."
Read more: House Republicans rally support for potential Greenland purchase bill
Greenland's location in the Arctic and its vast resources make it a highly sought-after geopolitical asset. As global interest in the Arctic grows, the island has become central to security and resource discussions.
