Greenland's Prime Minister, Jens-Frederik Nielsen, has firmly reiterated his call for the United States to engage in a respectful and lawful dialogue concerning the Arctic island's future. This renewed appeal comes with the significant backing of several key European leaders, who have jointly rejected recent remarks from former US President Donald Trump about a potential American takeover of Greenland.
European Powers Rally Behind Greenland's Sovereignty
On Tuesday, Prime Minister Nielsen welcomed a strong pledge of solidarity from the leaders of France, Germany, Italy, Poland, Spain, and the United Kingdom. They were joined by Danish Prime Minister Mette Frederiksen in issuing a joint statement that directly countered Trump's renewed interest in acquiring Greenland. The European leaders unequivocally stated that the mineral-rich Arctic island "belongs to its people." They reaffirmed that Greenland is a self-governing territory within the Kingdom of Denmark, and its matters are for Denmark and Greenland alone to decide.
"I will again ask the United States to seek a respectful dialogue. Support by European leaders is important at a time when international principles are being challenged," Nielsen stated. He stressed that any conversation must acknowledge Greenland's legal standing, writing on Facebook that "the dialogue must take place with respect for the fact that Greenland's status is rooted in international law and the principle of territorial integrity."
US Stance and Growing Arctic Tensions
The diplomatic friction stems from Donald Trump's repeated arguments that US control of Greenland is vital for American military interests, claiming Denmark has not sufficiently protected the strategically located island. Earlier on Monday, White House deputy chief of staff Stephen Miller appeared to dismiss concerns over Danish sovereignty, telling CNN that the world is "governated by strength, force, and power."
This rhetoric, coupled with recent US military actions in Venezuela, has heightened anxieties in both Greenland and Europe about Washington's broader intentions. Greenland has consistently stated it does not wish to become part of the United States. The European leaders' statement also addressed Arctic security, emphasizing it must be ensured collectively with NATO allies, including the US. "NATO has made clear that the Arctic region is a priority," the statement noted, adding that European allies are increasing their presence to keep the region safe.
A Strategic Island in a Changing Climate
The geopolitical spotlight on Greenland has intensified dramatically. As reported by AFP, rising tensions, climate change, and competition over newly accessible Arctic trade routes and vast mineral resources have made the island a focal point of global strategy. Located off Canada's northeastern coast, much of its territory lies inside the Arctic Circle.
For decades, Greenland has been central to North American defence. Now, as melting ice opens new sea passages, it is once again at the heart of international security calculations, fueling rivalry among major powers like the US, Russia, and China. The collective European support underscores a firm commitment to upholding international norms in the face of these shifting dynamics.
Polish Prime Minister Donald Tusk issued a pointed warning, stating that threats within the NATO alliance would undermine the organization itself. The Netherlands also expressed full support for the joint statement, with Dutch Prime Minister Dick Schoof backing Greenland's position.
