Danish Prime Minister Condemns Alleged U.S. Espionage in Greenland
- The New York Editorial Desk - Arif
- May 9
- 2 min read
Tone & Political Bias: Moderately Left-Leaning
Why: The article emphasizes concerns over sovereignty and critiques of U.S. intelligence activities, reflecting a perspective that prioritizes diplomatic norms and international law.
Denmark Reacts to U.S. Intelligence Reports
Danish Prime Minister Mette Frederiksen has expressed strong disapproval following reports that the United States has intensified intelligence gathering efforts in Greenland, a semi-autonomous territory of Denmark. Frederiksen stated, "You cannot spy against an ally," highlighting the breach of trust such actions represent among NATO partners.
The Wall Street Journal reported that U.S. intelligence agencies were directed to collect information on Greenland's independence movement and public sentiment regarding American resource extraction interests. These directives reportedly came from high-ranking officials under U.S. Director of National Intelligence, Tulsi Gabbard.
Diplomatic Measures Taken
In response to the allegations, Denmark summoned Jennifer Hall Godfrey, the acting head of the U.S. Embassy in Copenhagen, seeking clarification on the matter. Danish Foreign Minister Lars Løkke Rasmussen expressed deep concern, emphasizing that such espionage activities are inappropriate among allied nations.
Greenlandic Prime Minister Jens-Frederik Nielsen also condemned the reported espionage, labeling it as unacceptable and disrespectful.
Broader International Response
The reports have elicited reactions from other international leaders. Finnish President Alexander Stubb acknowledged the pressure faced by Denmark and Greenland, stating that the situation "doesn't feel right." Norwegian Prime Minister Jonas Gahr Støre reaffirmed that international law applies in the Arctic, countering any notions that the region is beyond legal jurisdiction.
U.S. Intelligence Community's Stance
Director of National Intelligence Tulsi Gabbard did not directly deny the reports but criticized the leaks of classified information. Gabbard stated that she had made three criminal referrals to the Justice Department concerning the leaks, accusing those responsible of undermining national security.
Historical Context
This incident is reminiscent of past controversies involving U.S. intelligence activities in allied nations. Notably, Operation Dunhammer revealed that the Danish Defence Intelligence Service had cooperated with the U.S. National Security Agency to wiretap senior politicians in European Union countries between 2012 and 2014.
The current situation underscores the complexities of international relations and the importance of trust among allies, particularly in sensitive regions like the Arctic.
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