The European Union has strongly condemned U.S. President Donald Trump’s repeated threats to take control of Greenland, a semi-autonomous territory of Denmark, stressing the unacceptability of any change in territorial boundaries by force. The growing concern stems from Trump’s recent comments, which suggest a willingness to use military force if necessary to secure Greenland, a strategic region in the Arctic rich in rare minerals and potentially vital new shipping routes as a result of climate change.
In a recent statement, Trump remarked, “I think we’re going to have it,” adding that Denmark’s claim to Greenland would be considered “unfriendly” if the island’s status wasn’t altered in the interest of “the protection of the free world.” This rhetoric has prompted alarm across Europe, particularly in light of Russia’s increasing influence in the Arctic and the broader geopolitical risks posed by such expansionist threats.
Greenland, while part of the Kingdom of Denmark, is not a member of the European Union but enjoys a special status with access to EU funds and movement rights for its citizens. The EU’s commitment to the territorial integrity of Denmark, including Greenland, is underscored by the mutual defense obligations outlined in Article 42.7 of the EU treaties. This clause mandates all EU member states to come to the aid of a fellow member state in the event of armed aggression.
The EU’s response to Trump’s assertions has been firm. German Chancellor Olaf Scholz emphasized that the “inviolability of borders” is a cornerstone of international law, while Danish Prime Minister Mette Frederiksen remarked that the future of Greenland should be determined by Europe, not external forces. EU officials, including Andrius Kubilius, the European Commissioner for Defence, stated that the EU is prepared to defend Denmark if necessary.
This hardening of the EU’s stance contrasts with earlier, more measured responses when Trump first made similar threats. The situation escalated following reports of a tense phone call between Trump and Frederiksen in 2019, where Trump again expressed interest in purchasing Greenland, a conversation described by sources as “fiery” and “horrendous.” In the aftermath, Denmark’s government has bolstered its military presence in the Arctic region, with a new €1.95 billion investment.
The issue of Greenland’s sovereignty is now a central topic for European leaders, who will discuss defense and transatlantic relations at an upcoming informal summit in Brussels. Amid the ongoing war in Ukraine and shifting global dynamics, EU officials are increasingly viewing Trump’s rhetoric as not only an affront to international norms but also a potential catalyst for further instability in an already volatile geopolitical landscape.
This situation underscores the EU’s commitment to maintaining its territorial integrity, protecting its member states, and ensuring that any international disputes are resolved through diplomacy rather than military force.
