Earlier this week at a security conference in Salen, Sweden, European Commissioner for Defense and Space Andrius Kubilius said the EU could step in to help defend Greenland if Denmark asks—and warned a U.S. military takeover could deal a fatal blow to NATO. 🌍⚠️
Kubilius echoed Danish Prime Minister Mette Frederiksen’s view that any forced takeover would not only fracture the alliance but also trigger a strong negative reaction across Europe.
Under Article 42.7 of the EU treaty, member states must aid any member facing armed aggression. Kubilius explained the EU could deploy troops, boost naval patrols and ramp up counter-drone systems around Greenland.
Denmark and the United States—both NATO members—are meeting this week to discuss the future of the Arctic territory. Greenland and Denmark have repeatedly said the land is not for sale, even as U.S. President Donald Trump insisted Washington must "own" Greenland, without ruling out force.
Swedish Prime Minister Ulf Kristersson noted that European NATO members are working on ways to strengthen the alliance—but stressed NATO remains fully operational. He also criticized recent U.S. actions in Venezuela and the threatening rhetoric toward Denmark and Greenland as risks for smaller nations.
Last week, leaders from France, Germany, Italy, Poland, Spain, Britain and Denmark issued a joint statement stressing decisions about Greenland rest with Denmark and Greenland alone. They emphasized Arctic security as a key priority, noting NATO is increasing its presence in the region.
Since 1946, the Salen security conference—organized by the Swedish civic defense group Folk och Forsvar—has brought together experts and policymakers to tackle big issues. This year’s discussions added Greenland to the Arctic security agenda.
As Denmark and the U.S. sit down this week, the world will be watching: Will Greenland’s fate strengthen transatlantic ties or test them to the limit? 🤔
Reference(s):
'U.S. takeover would end NATO': EU extends security offer to Greenland
cgtn.com
