BRUSSELS (AP) — The European Union on Monday sought to reassure Greenland with a commitment to a stronger partnership and an investment of 200 million euros ($232 million) over the next two years. This initiative aims to assist Greenland in addressing climate change, enhancing internet connectivity, and improving hydropower plants, fisheries, and education.
European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen made the announcement during her visit to Nuuk, the capital of Greenland. The EU's increased focus on Greenland follows U.S. President Donald Trump's assertions that the United States should take control of the island for security reasons, which raised sovereignty concerns among Greenlandic and Danish leaders and heightened tensions within NATO.
"Greenland's future is for the people of Greenland and Denmark to decide. No one else," von der Leyen stated. She emphasized the importance of territorial integrity and sovereignty as fundamental principles of international law.
In addition to the initial funding, von der Leyen expressed a desire to double EU budget support to Greenland to approximately half a billion euros ($580 million) by 2028.
"Greenland can count on the EU," she said after signing an EU-Greenland declaration with Prime Minister Jens-Frederik Nielsen and Danish Prime Minister Mette Frederiksen. Greenland is a semiautonomous territory of Denmark, a NATO ally.
Nielsen referred to the EU as "a loyal and trusted friend," particularly as Greenland faces new challenges that require support.
Frederiksen acknowledged the pressure from the Trump administration, stating, "We have been under pressure. It has been very clear, and we are very thankful for the great support we have received from our European partners but, by the way, also globally."
In January, Denmark and seven European allies sent military personnel to Greenland for exercises aimed at strengthening Arctic security and demonstrating support for Greenland's sovereignty.
Trump had threatened to impose new tariffs on Denmark and its allies, which they condemned as detrimental to trans-Atlantic relations. He eventually backed down after NATO agreed to enhance security in the Arctic region.
Von der Leyen's visit coincided with military exercises involving 11 NATO countries in Greenland, with around 400 military personnel participating, including special forces from Canada, Denmark, and Finland. No U.S. troops are involved in these Arctic Shield drills, which are scheduled to run from September 7 to 18.