While Trump recently relented and ruled out military force, the conflict remains a balancing act. Frederiksen is counting on European unity and diplomatic toughness rather than provocation.
Her stance is boosting her popularity in her own country. But the dispute over Greenland is more than just a political battle. It touches on identity, history, and geopolitical power issues. Whether Frederiksen’s bold approach will pay off in the long term remains to be seen. For now, however, she has shown that quiet resistance can be effective.
Hilary Swift portrait her for The New York Times.