Russian Foreign Minister Sergei Lavrov has said Greenland is not “a natural part” of Denmark, arguing that questions around former colonial territories are becoming more acute.
Speaking at a news conference in Moscow on Tuesday, Lavrov said Russia had no interest in interfering in Greenland’s affairs and stressed that Washington was aware Moscow had no plans to take control of the island.
“In principle, Greenland is not a natural part of Denmark, is it?” Lavrov said.
“It was neither a natural part of Norway nor a natural part of Denmark. It is a colonial conquest. The fact that the inhabitants are now accustomed to it and feel comfortable is another matter.”
US President Donald Trump has said he wants full US control of Greenland, an autonomous territory of Denmark, citing national security concerns. On Saturday, he announced tariffs on imports from European allies opposing a potential US takeover.
Russia has reacted positively to the growing divide between the US and Europe over Greenland, but has rejected Trump’s suggestion that Moscow is also seeking control of the island.
European countries have warned that Trump’s tariffs announcement would violate a trade deal reached with his administration last year. European Union leaders are expected to discuss possible retaliation at an emergency summit in Brussels on Thursday.
Faridah Abdulkadiri
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