As President Trump’s interest in purchasing Greenland sparks controversy, a new claim emerges that the UK may have a right of first refusal based on a 1917 treaty between the US and Denmark.
If President Trump attempts to purchase or annex Greenland, he may face unexpected competition from an old ally: Britain. According to Tom Høyem, 83, the last Danish minister to serve in Greenland from 1982 to 1987, the U.K. may have a right of first refusal based on a 1917 treaty between the U.S. and Denmark.
Greenland is an autonomous territory within the Kingdom of Denmark, located between the Arctic and Atlantic Oceans.
With a total area of approximately 2.175 million km², it is the largest island in the world.
The ice sheet covering about 80% of the island is up to 3 km thick in some areas.
Greenland's climate varies from polar in the north to temperate in the south, with temperatures ranging from -40°C to 10°C (°F).
The population is around 56,000 people, mostly Inuit.
The 1917 Treaty: A Complicated History
Høyem claims that Britain’s involvement in the treaty was contingent upon its right to be consulted if Denmark ever considered selling Greenland. This claim is based on his interpretation of historical documents, which he believes demonstrate a British role in securing Greenland‘s sovereignty. However, other experts have questioned Høyem‘s account, suggesting that it may not be supported by concrete evidence.
Expert Opinions Divided
Jennifer Spence, director of the Arctic Initiative at Harvard University, expressed skepticism about Høyem‘s claim, stating that such historical agreements could lead to chaos in international relations. She drew a parallel with Russia potentially asking for Alaska back from the U.S.
In contrast, Tom Høyem views Trump‘s interest in Greenland as ‘very positive and very constructive‘ for its defense. He believes that many Greenlanders are irritated by Trump‘s talk of a takeover, which they see as an outdated concept.
Current Developments
The Danish government has repeatedly stated that Greenland is not for sale, while the U.K. Foreign Office downplayed Trump‘s claims, stating that Greenland‘s future status is a matter for its people and government. Greenland itself has asserted its right to self-determination, with most residents favoring independence from Denmark.
However, one recent poll showed a majority of Greenlanders in favor of joining the United States. Høyem attributes this sentiment to Trump‘s business-like approach to politics, which he believes is out of touch with modern values.
