Danish intelligence sources reveal that American operatives, linked to Trump, are allegedly conducting influence operations in Greenland to drive a wedge between Greenland and Denmark. The activities, monitored by the Danish government, aim to bring Greenland closer to the US. The situation poses a political dilemma for Denmark, as it navigates the legal gray areas of foreign influence.
US Allegedly Attempts to Infiltrate Greenland: Danish Intelligence Reports
US Allegedly Attempts to Infiltrate Greenland: Danish Intelligence Reports
American operatives are allegedly attempting to infiltrate Greenland, according to sources from the Danish intelligence service.
Greenland is reportedly subjected to American influence operations by at least three men with ties to Trump, as reported by DR. The aim is to create a rift between Greenland and Denmark, encouraging Greenlanders to align more closely with the US.
The information comes from eight governmental sources in Greenland and the US, with whom DR has held several meetings.
It remains unclear whether the men acted independently or under orders. Their activities are being monitored by the Danish government.
"We are all concerned about this. Of course, we are," a source with detailed insight told DR.
Seen with Trump
One man was tasked with compiling a list of Greenlandic citizens who support Trump's plans to take over the territory. He also compiled a list of Trump opponents, according to a source.
The man has often been seen publicly with the president and was recently appointed to a role that could give him influence over US security policy.
During his visit to Nuuk, the man also encouraged Greenlanders to highlight cases that could portray Denmark negatively in American media.
"What we are seeing is the use of soft power, influence, and attempts to create internal division," a source said.
Attempted to Establish Contacts
The other two men have regularly traveled between Greenland and the US in recent years. Both previously worked under Trump.
In Greenland, they attempted to establish contacts with politicians, businesses, and citizens.
The Danish Security and Intelligence Service (PET) confirms to DR that these are influence campaigns.
"It is PET's assessment that Greenland, especially in the current situation, is a target for various influence campaigns," the security service wrote to DR.
A Three-Phase Strategy
According to DR's information, the covert activities in Greenland have been discussed in the government.
A source told the Danish public service channel that Trump's strategy to take over Greenland is divided into three phases: a charm offensive towards Greenlanders, pressure on Denmark, and now infiltration of Greenlandic society.
Last spring, the Wall Street Journal revealed, citing anonymous sources, that US intelligence agencies were ordered to increase espionage in Greenland.
The order involved gathering information about the Greenlandic independence movement and identifying individuals who support Trump's ambitions.
The US has no intention of using military force to achieve its goals, according to DR's sources.
Denmark's Dilemma
The situation has created a political dilemma. Denmark is reluctant to interfere in Greenland's internal affairs, yet it wants to ensure that Greenlanders are informed about the influence campaigns.
The Americans' activities are considered to be in a legal gray area.
According to a source, Greenlanders are welcome to work towards independence, and the US can work for stronger ties with the self-governing part of Denmark.
However, the efforts are deemed to cross a line if they involve intelligence activities.
"No one is allowed to spy—not even the Americans," the source said.
The White House has not responded to DR.