Rubio: Greenland is part of Denmark – for now
Translated from Norwegian, summarized and contextualized by DistantNews.
At a glance
- U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio made a cryptic remark about Greenland being part of Denmark "for now."
- Rubio stated that discussions between the U.S., Greenland, and Denmark regarding Greenland's use for collective defense are "in a positive place."
- He echoed President Trump's view that owning territory simplifies defense, especially concerning missile defense.
U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio offered a cryptic response when asked about Greenland's status, stating it is part of Denmark "for now." The comment came during a congressional hearing where Rubio discussed ongoing talks between the United States, Greenland, and Denmark.
For now.
Responding to a question from Delaware Democrat Sarah McBride about whether the U.S. needs to own territory within NATO for defense purposes, Rubio confirmed that the U.S. is engaged in conversations with Greenland and Denmark concerning the use of Greenland for collective defense. "It is a crucial part of missile defense, but we are involved in those conversations right now," Rubio stated.
We are actually involved in conversations with Greenland and Denmark about the use of Greenland for collective defense for all of us.
McBride, who had previously visited Greenland as part of a congressional delegation supporting Denmark and Greenland, inquired about Rubio's awareness of Greenland's status as a Danish territory. Rubio's response, "For now," suggests a potential openness to future discussions or shifts in the geopolitical landscape concerning the Arctic territory.
It is a crucial part of missile defense, but we are involved in those conversations right now.
Rubio aligned his remarks with President Donald Trump's perspective, noting that "it is much easier to defend when you have complete control over it." This sentiment underscores the strategic importance the U.S. places on Greenland, particularly for its role in missile defense systems. The ongoing dialogue aims to solidify cooperative defense arrangements in the region.
The president's position is that it is much easier to defend it when you have complete control over it.
Originally published by Aftenposten in Norwegian. Translated, summarized, and contextualized by our editorial team with added local perspective. Read our editorial standards.