Carney Backs Denmark Amid Trump’s Remarks on Greenland

PARIS — Canadian Prime Minister Mark Carney reaffirmed his strong support for Denmark on Tuesday, stressing that the future of Greenland must be decided “solely by the peoples of Denmark and Greenland.” His comments followed renewed remarks by U.S. President Donald Trump about the possible annexation of the island.

Speaking at a press conference at the Canadian Embassy in Paris, Carney emphasized that Canada consistently supports Denmark’s sovereignty and territorial integrity, including the autonomous territory of Greenland. He said the core principles at stake are national self-determination and respect for borders, adding that Arctic security must be ensured collectively within NATO.

Carney noted that NATO allies are strengthening Arctic security in response to increasing activity by Russia and China in polar waters. He also announced that Canada plans to open a consulate in Nuuk in early February, a move the foreign affairs minister described as a concrete step toward deepening engagement with Greenland and Denmark. Canada’s Governor General, Mary Simon, is expected to attend the opening.

Ahead of the announcement, Carney held a private meeting with Danish Prime Minister Mette Frederiksen, who thanked Canada for its support and highlighted the importance of close cooperation among NATO allies to secure the Arctic region.

Trump has recently revived talk of annexing Greenland, calling it a U.S. national security priority. Denmark responded by saying it would summon the U.S. ambassador to seek an explanation. Several European leaders also voiced support for Greenland, underscoring the need to uphold the principles of the UN Charter, including sovereignty, territorial integrity, and the inviolability of borders.