New Delhi : Soldiers would take up the fight immediately and open fire without awaiting orders from their commanders if anyone were to invade Danish territory, Denmark’s Defence Ministry has said as the US weighs military action to take Greenland. It was created when Nazi Germany attacked Denmark in April 1940, leading to a partial collapse of communications in the Scandinavian country, and has remained in place till date.
The clarification comes as US President Donald Trump keeps his eyes fixated on Greenland, which is overseen by Denmark, and has repeatedly threatened to take control of the autonomous land by force if needed. The 79-year-old has claimed that the Arctic territory is vital to the US national security due to the presence of Russian and Chinese ships. Trump also told the New York Times that he must possess all of Greenland instead of only signing a treaty. America is a member of a 1951 treaty that allows it broad rights to set up military posts in Greenland with the consent of the territory and Denmark.
Denmark and Greenland, however, have repeatedly said that the territory is not up for sale. Danish Prime Minister Mette Frederiksen warned this week that any military attempt at taking Greenland would mark the end of Nato. If the United States chooses to attack another NATO country militarily, then everything stops, she told Danish broadcaster. US Vice President JD Vance justified America’s stance on Greenland, telling Fox News on Thursday that Denmark has failed to do enough to ensure that the Arctic territory can “function as an anchor for world security”.
Denmark and Greenland’s envoys to Washington met White House officials on Thursday as they attempt to persuade US lawmakers and prominent Trump administration officials to step back from the Greenland plan. US officials have talked internally about offering lump sum payments of between $10,000 and $100,000 per person to residents of Greenland. The island nation is currently a semi-autonomous Danish territory with a population of about 57,000 and has an abundance of useful natural resources.
Another option being discussed is a Compact of Free Association, an agreement the US already has with some Pacific island nations. Under such deals, the US provides financial aid and defence protection in return for military access. Greenland would likely have to become independent from Denmark first, and payments could be used to encourage public support for that step or for a future agreement.
Read Also : Delhi-NCR Braces for Intensified Cold as Rain Hits Amid Ongoing Chill
-
-
-
-
