U.S. Intelligence Agencies Directed to Collect Data on Greenland Activities
U.S. officials have instructed intelligence agencies to increase their surveillance efforts on Greenland, indicating that President Donald Trump remains interested in the island. The directive was highlighted in a report that notes Denmark, Greenland’s governing ally, has expressed objections. Danish Foreign Minister Lars Løkke Rasmussen plans to summon the U.S. ambassador to discuss concerns over the matter, stressing that “we do not spy on friends.”
The intelligence directive issued last week requests information on Greenland’s independence movement, public opinions about U.S. interests in its resources, and identification of individuals supportive of U.S. goals in the Arctic. This guidance, known as a “collection emphasis message,” prioritizes intelligence activities, according to sources familiar with the situation. James Hewitt from the White House National Security Council stated that while the government does not comment on intelligence matters, the security of Greenland and the Arctic is a priority for the President.
In light of these developments, Tulsi Gabbard, the Director of National Intelligence, accused unnamed officials of leaking classified information to undermine Trump. Gabbard criticized the press for allegedly aiding in these leaks and referenced proposals for criminal prosecution against those involved. Marc Polymeropoulos, a former CIA officer, questioned the decision to resort to espionage for information that could be accessed through diplomatic means or public sources.
He suggested that such matters should be handled through established channels rather than utilizing intelligence resources. Trump, in a recent NBC News interview, did not dismiss the possibility of forcefully acquiring Greenland, stating, “We need Greenland very badly… for international security.” Despite this, a January poll indicated that 85% of Greenlanders do not wish to join the United States.
The island’s strategic significance and its resources have drawn increasing global interest amid changing climate conditions that may make these assets more accessible.