Denmark Summons US Diplomat Over Allegations of Campaign in Greenland

Denmark has summoned the US chargé d'affaires for a meeting over an alleged influence campaign in Greenland aimed at shaping public opinion and the future of the Arctic territory.

- Miranda Bryant

It comes after reports from Danish media, confirmed by the Danish foreign office, that at least three US men with ties to Donald Trump and the White House had been accused of trying to infiltrate Greenlandic society.

Their activity, according to the broadcaster DR, is thought to include compiling lists of Trump-supporting Greenlandic citizens and is being closely watched by the Danish government, which is aware of "foreign agents and actors" trying to shape public opinion in Greenland.

The Danish foreign minister, Lars Løkke Rasmussen, denounced the alleged scheme, saying it was "totally unacceptable". He said: "It is important we gain insight into this so that our populations can see what it is we are up against."

Rasmussen said officials would make it "very clear to the US" that a foreign influence campaign in Greenland with Washington's backing would be contrary to all international rules. Mette Frederiksen, the Danish prime minister, said she was taking the claims "very seriously". "Any interference in internal affairs in the kingdom of Denmark, and Greenlandic democracy, is unacceptable," she said. "I note that the Americans do not clearly deny that the situation is as DR presents today. And that is of course serious."