Furious with Trump, He Alters 500-Year-Old Coat of Arms
King Frederik of Denmark made a bold statement following the controversy stirred by US President Donald Trump regarding Greenland. In response to Trump’s interest in buying Greenland, King Frederik announced that he would keep the autonomous Danish lands and former colonies within the Kingdom of Denmark.
The decision also came with a symbolic gesture as the 500-year-old royal coat of arms of Denmark underwent a significant change. The three crowns that had adorned the coat of arms for centuries, symbolizing the Kalmar Union between Denmark, Norway, and Sweden, were replaced with a prominent polar bear and ram figure representing Greenland and the Faroe Islands respectively.
Tensions between Denmark and Greenland have been escalating, with Trump’s desire to purchase Greenland triggering accusations of genocide from Greenland Prime Minister Mute Egede against Denmark. As a response to the controversy, Trump’s son, Donald Trump Jr., is scheduled to visit Greenland today for a private visit aimed at producing content for his podcast.
The changes to the royal coat of arms were deemed necessary by Danish authorities, stating that the three crowns no longer held any significance. The alterations were made upon the recommendation of a committee established after King Frederik’s accession to the throne in January 2024.
In his New Year’s speech, King Frederik emphasized the loyalty of all constituents of the Kingdom of Denmark, from the Danish minority in southern Schleswig to Greenland, stating, “We belong to each other.” The evolving dynamics between Denmark and its autonomous territories signify a shift in the country’s historical symbolism and political relationships.
