In the face of Donald Trump’s imperial ambitions regarding Greenland, Denmark has not played all of its cards. At least one advantage remains – one of considerable significance, given the American president’s fondness for royal pageantry. While the standoff between Copenhagen and Washington is escalating, King Frederik X has chosen to remain silent, likely so as not to worsen an already volatile situation.

However, some tension subsided after the announcement of an agreement reached on January 21 in Davos between Trump and NATO Secretary General Mark Rutte of the Netherlands, and on January 29, the Danish royal household announced that the king would visit the island from February 18 to 20.

For the 57-year-old monarch – whose kingdom includes not only Denmark but also Greenland and the Faroe Islands – this gesture carries significant symbolic weight. On the occasion of his travel announcement, Frederik X stated that he is following the situation “closely” and has been affected by the distress of Greenlanders who are facing American threats. He also revealed that he had discussed the matter with his children. His statement, which was eagerly awaited by the local population, surprised no one, given the strong bond between the royal family – Frederik X in particular – and Greenland.

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