A high-level bipartisan delegation from the United States Congress commenced a diplomatic visit to Copenhagen on Friday, demonstrating support for Denmark and its autonomous territory Greenland following President Donald Trump’s controversial statements regarding potential acquisition of the Arctic island.
The congressional group, comprising eleven representatives from both major political parties, engaged in strategic discussions with Danish Prime Minister Mette Frederiksen and Greenlandic Premier Jens-Frederik Nielsen. The visit coincided with enhanced European military reconnaissance activities in Greenland, signaling regional solidarity.
Democratic Senator Dick Durbin emphasized the delegation’s purpose: “We are showing bipartisan solidarity with the people of this country and with Greenland. They’ve been our friends and allies for decades. We want them to know we appreciate that very much. And the statements being made by the president do not reflect what the American people feel.”
The diplomatic mission follows Wednesday’s meeting in Washington where Danish representatives acknowledged “fundamental disagreement” between Copenhagen and the White House regarding Greenland’s future. The territory’s strategic significance has drawn increased attention due to its mineral resources and Arctic positioning.
European nations including Britain, France, Germany, and Scandinavian countries have announced military deployments to the region. French Armed Forces Minister Alice Rufo characterized these movements as demonstrating European determination to “defend sovereignty” in the Arctic.
Greenlandic residents expressed appreciation for the congressional show of support. One Nuuk resident, a 39-year-old union representative speaking anonymously, stated: “Congress would never approve military action in Greenland. It’s just one idiot speaking. If he does it, he’ll get impeached or kicked out.”
The delegation included Democratic Senators Chris Coons, Jeanne Shaheen, and Peter Welch, alongside Republicans Lisa Murkowski and Thom Tillis. House Representatives Madeleine Dean, Steny Hoyer, Sara Jacobs, Sarah McBride, and Gregory Meeks completed the bipartisan contingent.
Large-scale demonstrations are planned across Denmark and Greenland on Saturday, organized by Greenlandic associations to protest Trump’s territorial statements. Thousands have indicated participation through social media platforms.