Danish Foreign Minister Lars Løkke Rasmussen has strongly criticized US Secretary of Defense Pete Hegseth for not explicitly denying potential American plans to invade Greenland. Rasmussen expressed his disappointment and concern, stating that Hegseth’s ambiguity contributes to undue pressure on the Danish Realm.

The controversy arose after Hegseth appeared before a congressional committee on Thursday. During the hearing, he was questioned about the US Department of Defense’s policy regarding the potential use of force to take control of Greenland and Panama.

When asked directly by Democrat Adam Smith whether the Department of Defense maintains plans to forcibly seize Greenland, Hegseth responded, “Our job at the Department of Defense is to have plans.”

Republican Congressman Mike Turner followed up, attempting to clarify Hegseth’s statement. He asked, “You are not confirming in your testimony today that there are plans in the Pentagon to invade or take Greenland by force, correct? That is not your testimony today?”

Hegseth replied, “What is my testimony is that the Pentagon has plans for many different eventualities.”

Rasmussen characterized Hegseth’s response as evasive and unacceptable. He noted that the US Secretary of Defense had an opportunity to dispel any doubts about American intentions but failed to do so. The Foreign Minister emphasized that such pressure on the Danish Realm is unwarranted and must be resisted.