Greenland's government has stated that it cannot accept a US takeover of the island under any circumstances, as Nato works on bolstering Arctic security. The declaration comes amid renewed interest from US President Donald Trump, who has said the US will take control of the strategically located, mineral-rich territory 'one way or the other'.
The self-governing part of Denmark emphasised that it is a member of Nato through its Danish commonwealth status, and will increase its defence efforts within the alliance's framework. The statement added that all Nato members, including the US, have a common interest in the island's defence.
Nato Secretary General Mark Rutte said the alliance is working on next steps to protect what is at stake in the Arctic, citing concerns about Russian and Chinese activity as sea lanes open. However, diplomats said talks are at an early stage with no concrete plans.
Denmark has pointed to a 1951 treaty that already allows the US to expand its military presence, and hopes a diplomatic solution can be found. Greenland's foreign minister and Danish counterpart are due to meet US Secretary of State Marco Rubio in Washington on Wednesday.
EU Defence Commissioner Andrius Kubilius warned that using military force to take Greenland would mark the end of Nato, and that the EU's mutual assistance clause could oblige member states to come to Denmark's aid. Meanwhile, German Foreign Minister Johann Wadephul played down the risk of unilateral US action, saying there is a common interest in addressing Arctic security challenges together.
