A prominent advocate for Greenland’s sovereignty responded angrily to an image of the U.S. flag overlaying Greenland. This came after President Donald Trump announced a deal with Denmark to increase military presence on the Arctic island. Trump announced that the U.S. would gain ‘permanent control over security and all other needs’ in Greenland, addressing U.S. concerns.
Danish Foreign Minister Lars Løkke Rasmussen shared optimism about the soon-to-be-signed deal on Instagram, stating it would be beneficial for Greenland, Denmark, and the United States. However, Orla Joelson criticized MAGA users’ suggestion that the U.S. acquired Greenland, labeling such claims as shameless propaganda.
Katie Miller, the wife of White House deputy chief of staff for policy Stephen Miller, posted an image of Greenland with the U.S. flag, which Joelson rejected by calling it propaganda. Joelson emphasized that the U.S. is not acquiring ownership of Greenland and urged to stop presenting it as American territory.
In response to related posts, Danish ambassador to the U.S., Jesper Møller Sørensen, urged respect for Denmark’s territory. Joelson also wrote online, pointing out misconceptions among some MAGA supporters about ownership. The U.S. State Department emphasized that the deal guarantees security interests without transferring sovereignty.
The State Department described it as an ‘unprecedented agreement’ with Greenland and Denmark, ensuring U.S. security interests without taxpayer cost. Newsweek is awaiting further comments from Joelson and the Danish foreign ministry.
Critics on social media expressed their views. A user known as the Danish Dude asked for clarity on the new deal in relation to the existing 1951 agreement, questioning ownership issues. Another user remarked on the disrespect of displaying the U.S. flag over Greenland and criticized Miller’s actions.
Others highlighted that while the deal involves U.S. military access, sovereignty remains intact. Trump announced plans for developing a military presence in Greenland. However, the U.S. has an existing presence and rights to expand bases through NATO.
Reports noted the agreement builds on the 1951 U.S.-Greenland military base agreement. Details remain unclear as text is not publicly released. The agreement allegedly prevents China and Russia from establishing bases in Greenland.
An author and journalist, Anne Applebaum, commented online that the deal essentially reinforces the historical arrangement, with U.S. strategic interests permanently secured.
The State Department highlighted that under this agreement, non-NATO countries cannot establish bases in Greenland. The agreement remains in effect even if Greenland gains complete independence, reinforcing strategic defense involving Greenland.
Danish Prime Minister Mette Frederiksen announced the deal will be signed at the upcoming United Nations General Assembly, pending approval from Danish and Greenland governments. Greenland’s Prime Minister Jens-Frederik Nielsen noted it recognizes Greenland’s interests.
Trump had previously alarmed NATO with ideas about acquiring Greenland, but his other military engagements have since overshadowed this matter.
Contact Edward Pearcey, Newsweek editor, for more information on this story.