German and Danish leaders meet in Berlin to reaffirm European unity amidst geopolitical tensions, addressing Arctic security and the Ukraine conflict.
German Chancellor Olaf Scholz and Danish Prime Minister Mette Frederiksen met in Berlin on Tuesday, presenting a united European stance amidst growing geopolitical pressures. While refraining from directly addressing US President Donald Trump’s renewed remarks about acquiring Greenland, Scholz and Frederiksen underscored the importance of sovereignty and international cooperation. Scholz, speaking on global challenges, asserted that “borders must not be moved by force” and emphasized the need for a strong Europe and NATO. Frederiksen highlighted the European Union’s foundation on “cooperation rather than confrontation,” reaffirming the shared values between Denmark and Germany.
Arctic Interests and Security Concerns
Trump’s aspirations for Greenland, an autonomous Danish territory rich in untapped resources, have reignited debates over Arctic geopolitics. Calling Greenland essential for “international security,” Trump has long pushed for the island’s acquisition. With melting Arctic ice opening strategic shipping routes, Nordic leaders, including Frederiksen, reiterated their commitment to defense and cooperation during a weekend summit. Scholz also addressed the Ukraine conflict, emphasizing alignment with Washington that peace must not be dictated by Russia, calling Vladimir Putin’s ongoing aggression “senseless.” The meeting in Berlin signaled European unity in an era of increasing global challenges.
Die dänische @Statsmin Mette Frederiksen heute bei der Pressekonferenz mit @Bundeskanzler Scholz in Berlin:
— Dänische Botschaft in Deutschland (@Daenemark_in_DE) January 28, 2025
„Europa, unser Kontinent, basiert auf der Idee, dass Kooperation und nicht Konfrontation zu Frieden, Fortschritt und Wohlstand führen.“ 🇪🇺🤝🇩🇪🇩🇰 https://t.co/aNg9XHeocK pic.twitter.com/4r6ggERYCU