For decades, Colonel Soren Knudsen answered the call of duty, serving both Denmark and its allies. His military career saw him fighting alongside U.S. troops, most notably in Afghanistan, where he endured 58 rocket attacks. As Denmark’s highest-ranking officer in the region at one point, he was awarded a Bronze Star Medal by the United States, a testament to his service and dedication.
“The Stars and Stripes have hung on my wall for years,” he recalls. “I’ve proudly shown them to everyone.”
However, recent geopolitical developments have profoundly shaken his faith in the alliance.
A Change in Sentiment
Knudsen’s perspective shifted following remarks by U.S. Senator J.D. Vance regarding Greenland and what he perceives as President Trump’s disregard for internationally recognized borders. His emotions are evident as he describes his reaction:
“I took the Stars and Stripes down, and the medal has been put away,” he says, his voice faltering.
President Trump recently reiterated his interest in acquiring Greenland, an autonomous territory of Denmark. For Knudsen, this rhetoric is deeply troubling.
“At first, it hurt. Then I felt offended,” he admits.
His sentiments echo throughout Denmark, where concerns over U.S.-European security relations have intensified. Standing outside Amalienborg Palace in Copenhagen, Knudsen speaks amid the backdrop of the Changing of the Guard ceremony—a tradition that now feels symbolic of the changing global order.
“It’s about values. When those values are dismissed by what we thought was an ally, it becomes very difficult to accept,” he states. His American wife, Gina, shares his concerns.
“Denmark supported U.S. military efforts without question,” she says. “To hear threats from a country I also love, and to feel that alliance is being trampled upon, feels deeply personal.”
Despite his disappointment, Knudsen remains hopeful.
“It is my prayer that one day I will be able to put that flag back on my wall,” he confides.
A History of Sacrifice
Denmark has borne a significant burden in U.S.-led military campaigns. The country lost 44 soldiers in Afghanistan—more, proportionally, than any ally aside from the U.S. In Iraq, eight Danish soldiers also perished. These sacrifices, made in solidarity with Western allies, now stand in stark contrast to the rhetoric emerging from Washington.
Anders Fogh Rasmussen, former Danish prime minister and ex-NATO Secretary General, draws a striking comparison:
“President Trump’s statements about Greenland bear a concerning resemblance to President Putin’s rhetoric on Ukraine,” he warns.
Rasmussen argues that, given the shifting stance of the U.S., Europe must take greater responsibility for its own defense.
“For decades, I admired the United States as the world’s policeman. But if the U.S. no longer wishes to fulfill that role, then Europe must be prepared to defend itself.”
Despite his concerns, Rasmussen remains skeptical that the U.S. would take Greenland by force.
“At the end of the day, I do not believe the Americans would resort to such actions,” he asserts.
Greenland’s Future and Danish Security
For many Danes, Greenland represents an unresolved colonial legacy rather than an asset to be bargained over. Young citizens, such as 18-year-old music student Luukas, express their alarm.
“Trump goes after anything he sees. He doesn’t care about the climate or people—only money and oil,” he says.
His peer Clara adds, “It’s frightening how easily his decisions can affect our daily lives, even from thousands of miles away.”
As tensions rise, Denmark is taking decisive steps to bolster its defense. The nation has committed over 3% of its GDP to military spending in 2025 and 2026, focusing on Arctic security and deterrence against potential aggression. A significant portion of these funds will go toward strengthening Denmark’s presence in the “High North,” including investments in new Arctic naval vessels and long-range drones.
Security expert Hans Tino Hansen, who leads the intelligence firm Risk Intelligence, believes that Denmark should engage the U.S. diplomatically rather than view it solely as a threat.
“By strengthening agreements on defense, security, and economic cooperation—particularly concerning raw materials—we can restore U.S. influence in a way that benefits both nations,” he explains.
Greenland’s Geopolitical Significance
Beyond political posturing, Greenland’s strategic location has long been a focal point of global interest.
“Greenland is one of the most centrally located places on Earth,” says world-renowned geologist Prof. Minik Rosing.
However, while Greenland is rich in mineral resources, Rosing remains skeptical about its potential for economic exploitation.
“Rare earth elements are not actually rare—their processing is expensive and complex. Large-scale mining is risky, requiring massive investment with uncertain returns,” he notes.
Currently, the U.S. maintains just one military base in Greenland—Pituffik, in the far north. Despite Trump’s renewed interest in acquiring the island, the reality remains that Greenland’s future will be determined by its people.
Although independence from Denmark is widely supported among Greenlandic parties, financial dependence on Denmark remains a significant obstacle. The annual block grant of approximately £480 million (€570 million) accounts for more than half of Greenland’s public budget.
Rosing underscores the pragmatic concerns of Greenlanders:
“People care about healthcare, schools, fuel prices—everyday needs. Independence is an ideal, but economic stability is the priority.”
Looking Ahead
Denmark’s deep-rooted military ties with the U.S. have been tested in unprecedented ways. With shifting alliances and rising geopolitical tensions, the nation faces difficult choices about its defense strategy and diplomatic approach.
As Colonel Knudsen reflects on his service, he remains hopeful that the values he once fought for can be restored.
“For now, my flag remains off the wall. But I hope one day, I can proudly hang it again.”
Source:https://www.bbc.com/news/articles/crmjewpkje9o
