President Donald Trump has ignited a diplomatic firestorm by reaffirming his intent on social media for the United States to acquire Greenland, a self-governing territory under Danish sovereignty.
"I'm the one who SAVED NATO," Trump declared on his official account, adding, "The United States needs Greenland for national security reasons; it is crucial for the Golden Dome we are constructing. If we don't take it, Russia or China will, and that won't happen."
In a subsequent message, Trump was even more forthright: "NATO: Tell Denmark to get them out of there, NOW! Two dog sleds won't cut it! Only the U.S. can!" referring to the alleged Sino-Russian presence on the Arctic island.
These statements have sparked a strong backlash in Brussels. European Defense Commissioner Andrius Kubilius warned on Monday that a forced annexation of Greenland "would spell the end of NATO," reminding everyone that under Article 42.7 of the European Union Treaty, member countries are obliged to assist any state that suffers military aggression.
However, NATO Secretary-General Mark Rutte refrained from criticizing Trump during a conference in Zagreb. The former Dutch prime minister stated that "the American president is doing the right thing for NATO by pushing for increased defense spending," highlighting that due to Washington's pressure, all allies have met the 2% GDP military spending mark and are moving towards 3.5%.
Rutte also pointed out that NATO is discussing how to bolster Arctic protection amid rising Chinese and Russian interest in the region.
Meanwhile, Copenhagen and Washington are set to hold a crucial meeting this Wednesday, where Trump will insist on acquiring a "title deed" to Greenland, a move that several European diplomats believe could trigger the greatest crisis in NATO's history.
Potential Impacts of U.S. Acquisition of Greenland
Why is Greenland important to the United States?
Greenland holds strategic importance due to its location in the Arctic, which is crucial for national security and potential resources. It also plays a role in countering Russian and Chinese influence in the region.
What could be the consequences of a forced annexation of Greenland?
A forced annexation could lead to severe diplomatic fallout, potentially causing the dissolution of NATO and straining international relations within Europe and beyond.