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Europe Backs Greenland Self-Determination, Elevates Arctic Security in Joint Statement

The declaration ties regional defense to NATO cooperation that includes the United States.

Overview

  • Leaders of the United Kingdom, France and Germany said Greenland’s future belongs to its residents and that only Denmark and the Greenland government can decide questions of sovereignty.
  • Italy, Poland, Spain and Denmark joined the statement, which some reporting described as a check on President Donald Trump’s reported interest in acquiring Greenland.
  • The signatories cast Arctic security as a top European priority and said Europe and its allies are strengthening presence, activity and investment to deter hostile powers.
  • The text reiterates that Denmark, including Greenland, is part of NATO and says Arctic security should be achieved jointly by NATO allies, including the United States.
  • Separately, Canada announced plans to open a consulate in Nuuk and said the Governor General and foreign minister will visit Greenland in early February in a move described as showing solidarity.