Brussels, Belgium – European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen affirmed that the European Union stands in “full solidarity” with Denmark and Greenland, stressing that the island’s future is to be decided by the people of Greenland and Denmark. This comes amid growing international interest in the fate of the Arctic island.
European solidarity with Denmark
Von der Leyen said Greenland can count on the European Union, reaffirming Brussels’ commitment to supporting the island and strengthening cooperation with it. These remarks come as Europe seeks to solidify its ties with Greenland and bolster its presence in the Arctic region.
Greenland’s future is in the hands of its people.
The President of the European Commission stressed that Greenland’s future cannot be determined by any outside party, but rather by the people of the island and Denmark. Greenland enjoys broad self-governance within the Kingdom of Denmark. However, issues of sovereignty, foreign relations, and defense remain under the Kingdom’s jurisdiction. These statements come amidst continued pronouncements by US President Donald Trump regarding the need for the United States to acquire Greenland. This has drawn objections from Copenhagen, Nuuk, and several other European allies.
New European partnership with Greenland
Coinciding with von der Leyen’s visit to Greenland, the European Union announced a €200 million partnership package. The package aims to support sectors including education, fisheries, digital communications, energy, sustainable mining, housing, and tourism. Von der Leyen affirmed that Greenland is a strategic partner and a reliable friend of the EU. She also noted that strengthening cooperation with Greenland reflects the island’s growing importance to Europe, particularly in light of geopolitical shifts and escalating competition in the Arctic region.