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European Leaders Reject Trump's Greenland Remarks, Reaffirm NATO Unity

European leaders have issued a coordinated statement firmly rejecting renewed remarks by former US President Donald Trump regarding Greenland. They assert that Greenland is an integral part of the Kingdom of Denmark and the NATO alliance, and that security in the Arctic must be addressed collectively. The leaders emphasized that sovereignty over Greenland rests solely with Denmark and its people, calling any external claims a violation of fundamental principles. The statement aims to present a unified transatlantic front while still describing the US as an essential partner for regional security.

Key Points: Europe Rejects Trump on Greenland, Affirms NATO & Sovereignty

  • Europe rejects Trump's Greenland focus
  • Reaffirms Greenland is part of NATO
  • Stresses Arctic security is collective
  • Asserts sovereignty and territorial integrity
2 min read

"Greenland belongs to its people": European leaders push back against Trump, reaffirm NATO unity

European leaders issue a joint statement asserting Greenland belongs to its people and is part of NATO, pushing back against remarks by Donald Trump.

"Greenland belongs to its people. It is for Denmark and Greenland, and them only, to decide. - European Leaders' Joint Statement"

Copenhagen, January 6

European leaders have issued a joint statement pushing back against renewed remarks by US President Donald Trump on Greenland, asserting that security in the Arctic must be addressed collectively.

In a letter released by the Danish Prime Minister's Office on X, the leaders reaffirmed Greenland's status within the transatlantic alliance, stating, "The Kingdom of Denmark - including Greenland - is part of NATO."

Emphasising a unified security framework, the statement said, "Security in the Arctic must therefore be achieved collectively, in conjunction with NATO allies including the United States, by upholding the principles of the UN Charter, including sovereignty, territorial integrity and the inviolability of borders. These are universal principles, and we will not stop defending them."

The leaders further underscored Greenland's political standing, stating, "Greenland belongs to its people. It is for Denmark and Greenland, and them only, to decide on matters concerning Denmark and Greenland."

The joint letter was signed by Danish Prime Minister Mette Frederiksen, French President Emmanuel Macron, German Chancellor Friedrich Merz, British Prime Minister Keir Starmer, as well as the leaders of Italy, Spain and Poland.

While reiterating their position, the leaders described the United States as "an essential partner" in ensuring Arctic security. The coordinated message comes amid Trump's renewed focus on Greenland, a vast, sparsely populated territory with significant mineral resources.

The developments have raised concern in Denmark, which is responsible for Greenland's defence, particularly as Trump's remarks follow recent US military actions elsewhere.

Earlier, Frederiksen warned that any attempt by the United States to take over Greenland would mark the end of NATO.

Meanwhile, Greenland's Prime Minister sought to downplay the rhetoric, saying the territory intends to restore "good cooperation" with Washington.

Addressing reporters, Greenland's Nielsen said, "The situation is not such that the United States can simply conquer Greenland."

The joint statement followed remarks by US President Donald Trump focusing on Greenland after the ousting of Venezuelan leader Nicolas Maduro.

- ANI

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Reader Comments

S
Sarah B
Interesting to see this play out. From an Indian perspective, we understand the sensitivity of territorial integrity. No country should make claims on another's land. The UN Charter principles they mention are universal for a reason.
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Rohit P
The timing is everything. Right after the Venezuela situation, this statement sends a clear signal. It's about minerals and strategic position, let's be real. Glad Denmark and Greenland are standing their ground. 🇩🇰
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Priya S
While I agree with the principle, the statement feels a bit performative. If the US were to seriously push, would all these leaders hold the line? The real test is action, not just a joint letter. Hope their unity is more than just words.
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Michael C
"Greenland belongs to its people" – a powerful line. Self-determination is key. The world is watching how major powers respect (or don't respect) this basic idea. Sets a precedent.
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Kavya N
As an Indian, reading "inviolability of borders" has a certain resonance. The Arctic might seem far away, but the principle isn't. Global stability depends on everyone playing by the same rules. Good on the European leaders for this.

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