U.S. officials have directed intelligence agencies to intensify efforts to gather information on Greenland, despite widespread criticism from Denmark, which governs the semi-autonomous island. This directive signals President Donald Trump’s ongoing interest in acquiring Greenland, a priority he highlighted in recent statements. Denmark’s Foreign Minister Lars Løkke Rasmussen expressed deep concerns over this espionage directive, emphasizing that allies should not spy on each other.
The Office of the Director of Intelligence outlined the directive in a “collection emphasis message” aimed at understanding Greenland’s political independence movement and gauging local perspectives on U.S. interest in the island’s resources. While a White House National Security Council spokesperson reiterated U.S. concerns about Greenland’s security, tensions escalated with claims from National Intelligence Director Tulsi Gabbard that the leaking of this information undermined Trump and U.S. national security.
Questions arose about the necessity of espionage for gathering information that could likely be obtained through diplomatic channels. Former CIA officer Marc Polymeropoulos criticized the administration’s approach, suggesting intelligence resources could be better utilized elsewhere. Trump’s comments have further complicated matters; he has not dismissed the idea of forcibly acquiring Greenland, claiming its strategic significance for international security.
In contrast, a poll indicated that 85% of Greenlanders oppose the idea of becoming part of the U.S. The island’s strategic relevance has increased with global warming, which is opening up access to its valuable natural resources, including rare earth minerals essential for various industries. As geopolitical competition intensifies in the Arctic, both the U.S. and Denmark may face growing challenges regarding sovereignty and security interests in the region.
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