China warns US against using Greenland as ‘pretext’ for Arctic ambitions

China on Monday said the United States should not use other countries as a “pretext” to pursue its own interests in Greenland, stressing that Beijing’s activities in the Arctic comply with international law. A Chinese Foreign Ministry spokesperson said China’s actions in the region are aimed at promoting peace, stability and sustainable development.

The remarks come amid rising tensions after US President Donald Trump repeatedly expressed interest in acquiring Greenland, a semiautonomous territory of NATO ally Denmark. Trump has argued that the US needs to “take Greenland” to prevent Russia or China from gaining control, saying he would prefer to “make a deal” but was determined to secure the island one way or another.

Denmark and Greenland push back

Danish Prime Minister Mette Frederiksen warned that a US takeover of Greenland would mark the end of NATO. On Friday, Greenland Prime Minister Jens-Frederik Nielsen and leaders of the territory’s four other parliamentary parties issued a joint statement reiterating that Greenland’s future must be decided by its people. They also expressed their “wish that the United States’ contempt for our country ends”.

China defends Arctic role

China declared itself a “near-Arctic state” in 2018 as it sought to expand its influence in the region. Beijing has also announced plans for a “Polar Silk Road” under its Belt and Road Initiative to build economic links across Arctic nations. Responding to US statements, Foreign Ministry spokesperson Mao Ning said China’s Arctic activities are in line with international law, though she did not elaborate.

Diplomatic engagements planned

The dispute has triggered diplomatic activity, with Danish and Greenlandic envoys expected to visit Washington this week. Plans are also being drawn up for US senators to travel to Denmark, underlining the high-level attention surrounding the issue.