Denmark Warns US: ‘Troops Will Shoot First’ if Greenland Is Invaded.
Denmark has sent a sharp warning to the United States over Greenland, stating that Danish troops would open fire immediately without awaiting orders if anyone attempted to seize the territory. The statement, citing a 1952 Cold War-era directive, underscores Denmark’s zero-tolerance stance amid renewed US interest in the Arctic region.
The rule, established after Nazi Germany’s 1940 invasion of Denmark, allows soldiers to act autonomously if communications are disrupted during an attack. Greenland’s Joint Arctic Command would decide what constitutes a threat.
US President Donald Trump has repeatedly expressed interest in acquiring Greenland, claiming it is strategically vital due to Russian and Chinese activity. Trump told The New York Times that ownership, not a treaty or lease, is essential to secure the territory.
Although a 1951 treaty grants the US rights to set up military installations with Danish consent, both Copenhagen and Nuuk insist Greenland is not for sale. Danish Prime Minister Mette Frederiksen warned that any military action would threaten NATO: “If the United States attacks another NATO country militarily, everything stops,” she said.
US Vice President JD Vance defended Washington’s position, arguing that Denmark has failed to make Greenland a “global security anchor” and stressed its importance for missile defense.
Diplomatic efforts are underway: Denmark and Greenland’s envoys met White House officials to dissuade the US from pursuing the plan, while Secretary of State Marco Rubio is expected to continue talks with Danish representatives next week.
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