EU Warns U.S. Military Takeover of Greenland Would End NATO, Commissioner Says
Speaking amid growing debate over Arctic security, the commissioner said such an action would violate international law, undermine the sovereignty of Denmark and Greenland, and destroy the trust that underpins NATO’s collective defence framework. “NATO is built on shared values and mutual respect. A military takeover of allied territory would be in
compatible with those principles,” the official said. Greenland, an autonomous territory of Denmark, holds increasing strategic importance due to its Arctic location, rare earth resources and proximity to emerging northern shipping routes. While the United States maintains military facilities on the island under existing agreements, European officials stress that any expansion of U.S. influence must occur through diplomacy and cooperation, not coercion. The comments reflect broader unease in Europe over Washington’s recent rhetoric and defence posture, prompting renewed calls for stronger European strategic autonomy. EU leaders have reiterated their commitment to NATO while warning that unilateral actions by any member risk fracturing the alliance at a time of heightened global instability. Denmark has not responded directly to the remarks but has previously stated that Greenland’s future can only be decided by its people, in accordance with international law. Source: Reuters