European leaders have issued a robust and unmistakable rebuke to U.S. President Donald Trump’s recent comments about seeking control of Greenland, affirming that the Arctic territory’s future belongs solely to its own people and the Kingdom of Denmark.
In a joint statement released on Tuesday, leaders from across the continent, including France, Germany, Italy, Poland, Spain and the United Kingdom, united with Danish Prime Minister Mette Frederiksen to defend Greenland’s sovereignty and territorial integrity in the face of renewed rhetoric from Washington that has unsettled NATO allies and Arctic partners.
“Greenland belongs to its people,” the statement declared. “It is for Denmark and Greenland, and them only, to decide on matters concerning Denmark and Greenland.” The leaders underscored that respect for sovereignty, territorial integrity and the inviolability of borders — principles enshrined in the United Nations Charter — must guide international relations, particularly in sensitive regions such as the Arctic.
The statement comes after President Trump renewed his controversial remarks about Greenland, suggesting the United States should pursue a more direct role in the territory for strategic and security reasons. Those comments followed a U.S. military operation in Venezuela that heightened geopolitical tensions and prompted European capitals to address broader concerns about U.S. intentions—particularly as Arctic security grows in importance amid rising interest from China and Russia.
Denmark’s Frederiksen has been among the most vocal critics of the U.S. position, telling the press that Greenland’s future is not for sale and must be determined by Greenlanders and Danes themselves. She has also warned that any perceived attempt by the U.S. to take control of Greenland could undermine the North Atlantic Treaty Organization (NATO) and destabilise the transatlantic alliance that has anchored European security since World War II.
Other European leaders echoed those sentiments. British Prime Minister Keir Starmer said the decision over Greenland’s destiny lies with its people and Denmark, and French President Emmanuel Macron emphasised that international borders cannot be changed by force. German and Italian officials called for unity among European partners in upholding international law and protecting sovereign rights.
The collective response reflects growing unease in Europe over statements by the U.S. administration that resurface long-standing sensitivities about territorial control and national sovereignty, issues that resonate deeply in NATO capitals and beyond. The leaders also reaffirmed that cooperation — not unilateral action — should define Arctic security, stressing that NATO allies must work together to deter potential threats and uphold shared values.
Greenland, an autonomous territory within the Kingdom of Denmark, remains strategically significant due to its location and natural resources. Though semi-self-governing, it falls within Denmark’s remit and benefits from NATO’s collective defence guarantees, a point emphasised by European leaders seeking to reassure allies and maintain stability amid the diplomatic flashpoint.
