by InTrieste
Seven European leaders issued a rare joint declaration on Tuesday affirming that Greenland “belongs to its people,” in response to renewed statements by President Donald Trump and his administration suggesting the Arctic territory should come under United States control for strategic reasons.
The statement, emphasizing respect for sovereignty and self-determination, comes as Washington increasingly frames Greenland — an autonomous territory within the Kingdom of Denmark — as a critical asset in the intensifying geopolitical competition in the Arctic.
Administration officials have highlighted Greenland’s vast reserves of rare earth minerals and its strategic location between North America and Europe as vital to U.S. national security. Officials point in particular to China’s growing commercial involvement in the Arctic and Russia’s expanding military presence, including new bases and upgraded naval and air capabilities.
Denmark’s prime minister rejected Washington’s position, warning that any attempt to assert U.S. control through military or coercive means would strike at the foundation of the postwar Western alliance.
Greenland, the world’s largest island, governs its own domestic affairs and has steadily expanded its autonomy from Denmark in recent decades. While Copenhagen retains responsibility for defense and foreign policy, Greenland’s elected government has repeatedly emphasized that decisions about its future belong to its people.
The United States already maintains a significant presence in Greenland through Thule Air Base, a key hub for missile defense and space surveillance. But recent rhetoric from Washington has revived the idea of bringing Greenland under U.S. control, a proposal that was once considered diplomatically unlikely.
In interviews with New Yorkers on Tuesday, opinions varied. Some said the U.S. should assert a stronger presence in the Arctic, citing national security and economic opportunities. Others emphasized respect for Greenland’s autonomy and cautioned against any action that could strain international alliances.
“Greenland is part of Denmark, and its people should decide their future,” said one resident in Manhattan. Another, in Brooklyn, noted, “If the U.S. wants to protect its interests, it needs to work through partnerships, not unilateral moves.”
As Europe watches closely, questions remain about the broader implications. How might this news affect Italy? Like the rest of Europe, it is likely to remain on alert as global powers navigate the changing Arctic landscape.
