Following Donald Trump's remarks about wanting to make Greenland part of the United States, Denmark’s King Frederik has scheduled a one-day visit to the Arctic island to emphasise national unity. Initially set for Monday, the trip was delayed to Tuesday because stormy weather forced the closure of Greenland’s airport. Although relations between Greenland and Denmark, its former colonial ruler, have been tense, King Frederik remains well-liked among Greenlanders. He will be accompanied by Greenland’s Prime Minister Jens-Frederik Nielsen, who was in Copenhagen for official talks amid mounting pressure from Washington.

King Frederik, who became Denmark’s monarch last year, holds a ceremonial role without actual political authority. His current visit to Washington is meant to highlight the strong relationship between the two nations and Denmark’s historical connection to its former colony. Just a month before Donald Trump began his second term as U.S. President, Greenland’s then-prime minister had accused Denmark of committing "genocide" in the past and intensified calls for independence from the Danish monarchy. However, Trump’s renewed push to annex the Arctic territory soon changed Greenland's position.

Prime Minister Nielsen, who assumed office this month, joined Danish Prime Minister Mette Frederiksen in reaffirming their partnership during a press conference in Copenhagen. The Danish royal family continues its tradition of visiting Greenland regularly, with King Frederik even dedicating up to four months to an expedition there.

Once a Danish colony, Greenland became an official part of Denmark in 1953. Over time, the push for independence gained momentum, and today the island governs itself. In 2009, it also earned the right to pursue complete independence through a referendum.