Copenhagen: Denmark, along with six NATO countries, issued a joint statement on Greenland, calling for respect for "sovereignty, territorial integrity and the inviolability of borders" after renewed calls from the US for an American takeover of Greenland.
According to Anadolu Agency - English, the leaders of Denmark, France, Germany, Italy, Poland, Spain, and the UK emphasized that "Greenland belongs to its people. It is for Denmark and Greenland, and them only, to decide on matters concerning Denmark and Greenland." The statement highlighted that Arctic security remains a "key priority for Europe," with many European allies increasing their presence, activities, and investments to maintain safety in the region.
The leaders underscored the need for collective security in the Arctic, achievable in conjunction with NATO allies, including the United States, by adhering to the principles of the UN Charter. They reiterated support for sovereignty, territorial integrity, and the inviolability of borders as universal principles that should be defended.
The statement also acknowledged the US as an "essential partner" in this effort, citing the 1951 defence agreement between the Kingdom of Denmark and the United States as a foundation for their collaboration.
Nordic countries echoed this message, with the foreign ministers of Denmark, Finland, Iceland, Norway, and Sweden expressing their collective commitment to preserving security, stability, and cooperation in the Arctic. They noted steps taken to enhance deterrence and defence in the region through new capabilities, activities, and an increased presence.
The ministers supported NATO's increased vigilance in the Arctic and mentioned that they have raised investments in Arctic security, with plans to do more in close consultation with the US and other NATO allies. They stressed that Arctic security relies on respecting fundamental principles of the UN Charter and international law.
Meanwhile, the governments of Greenland and Denmark have sought discussions with US Secretary of State Marco Rubio. Greenland's foreign minister, Vivian Motzfeldt, announced on Facebook that they have reached out to the US State Department following recent remarks by US President Donald Trump regarding Greenland. They have requested a meeting with Rubio, with Danish Foreign Minister Lars Lokke Rasmussen expected to participate in these talks.
Despite previous requests to meet Rubio, such a meeting has yet to occur. President Trump has repeatedly expressed interest in taking control of Greenland, a self-governing Danish territory, and has not ruled out doing so with military force. After a US military operation in Venezuela captured President Nicolas Maduro, Trump renewed his calls for an American takeover of Greenland, citing US security interests.
Denmark's Prime Minister Mette Frederiksen has urged Trump to "stop the threats." Several European countries and the EU expressed strong support for Denmark and Greenland, rejecting any external influence over the island's future and stressing the importance of respecting sovereignty and territorial integrity.