Prime Minister Mark Carney meets with Denmark’s Prime Minister Mette Frederiksen during a one-on-one discussion at the Canadian Embassy in Paris on Tuesday, January 6, 2026. The Canadian Press
Prime Minister Mark Carney firmly supported Denmark on Tuesday after renewed comments from U.S. President Donald Trump raised questions about the future of Greenland. Carney said decisions about the Arctic island belong only to the people of Denmark and Greenland, making Canada’s position clear amid growing international attention.
Standing alongside Danish leaders, Carney stressed that Canada respects Denmark’s sovereignty and territorial integrity. He said this support includes Greenland, which governs its own local affairs but remains part of the Kingdom of Denmark.
Response to U.S. remarks
The prime minister’s comments followed fresh public discussion from President Trump about the United States potentially taking over Greenland. Trump has raised the idea several times in recent years, often pointing to the island’s strategic location and natural resources.
Carney rejected any suggestion of outside control. He said the future of Greenland “will be decided solely by the people” of Denmark and Greenland. His remarks aimed to underline Canada’s support for international law and the right of people to decide their own political future.
Why Greenland matters
Greenland sits between North America and Europe and plays a key role in Arctic security. Melting ice has increased global interest in the region, opening new shipping routes and access to minerals. These changes have drawn attention from major powers, including the United States, Russia, and China.
Denmark has repeatedly stated that Greenland is not for sale. Greenland’s leaders have also made clear that any decisions about independence or international partnerships rest with its residents.
Canada’s Arctic interests
Canada shares deep concerns about the Arctic’s future. The region affects national security, climate change, and economic development. Carney has often spoken about the need to protect Arctic sovereignty and work closely with allies to maintain stability.
By supporting Denmark, Canada signals that Arctic nations should cooperate rather than compete over territory. Carney’s message reinforces Canada’s long-standing approach of resolving disputes through diplomacy and mutual respect.
Strengthening ties with Denmark
Carney’s meeting with Danish officials also focused on broader cooperation. Canada and Denmark work closely through NATO and other international groups. Both countries monitor activity in the Arctic and share concerns about increased military and economic interest from outside powers.
Danish leaders welcomed Canada’s clear stance. They have faced repeated questions about Greenland’s status since Trump first floated the idea of U.S. control. Canada’s backing adds weight to Denmark’s position on the global stage.
Looking ahead
While Trump’s remarks stirred headlines, Carney’s response aimed to calm tensions. He framed the issue as one of principle rather than politics. Canada, he said, will continue to stand with allies and defend the idea that borders and territories cannot change through pressure or speculation.
As Arctic attention grows, Canada plans to remain active in regional discussions. Carney has said Canada will invest more in Arctic defence and diplomacy to ensure the region stays peaceful and governed by clear rules.
