European Leaders Warn Trump on Greenland, Emphasize Self-Determination and Arctic Security
The Presidents of France, the Chancellor of Germany, and the Prime Ministers of Italy, Poland, Spain, the United Kingdom, and Denmark issued a joint statement in response to remarks and the approach of U.S. President Donald Trump regarding Greenland. They stressed the right of the people of this land to determine their own future.
The statement expressed that the security of the Arctic region is a fundamental priority for Europe and is critically important not only for the European continent but also for international and transatlantic security. The European leaders recalled that NATO has explicitly prioritized the Arctic region in its security agenda, and member countries have increased their presence and activities there.
They added that European countries, along with other allies, have expanded their investments and presence in the Arctic to keep the area secure and prevent potential threats. The statement emphasized that the Kingdom of Denmark, including Greenland, is part of NATO.
The leaders underscored that ensuring security in the Arctic must be carried out collectively within the framework of cooperation among NATO allies, including the United States, and with due respect to the principles of the United Nations Charter—such as national sovereignty, territorial integrity, and border inviolability. The statement concluded by affirming that Greenland belongs to its people, and only Denmark and Greenland have the right to make decisions about its future and related matters.
