Europe backs Denmark on Greenland, signals stronger NATO push in the Arctic

European leaders on Tuesday issued a joint statement

underscoring the strategic importance of Arctic security and reaffirming that Greenland’s future rests solely with its people and the Kingdom of Denmark, amid growing geopolitical competition in the region.

In a statement released by the Office of the Prime Minister of Denmark, the leaders of France, Germany, Italy, Poland, Spain, the United Kingdom and Denmark said the Arctic remains a “key priority for Europe” and is critical to both international and transatlantic security.

The leaders noted that NATO has clearly identified the Arctic as a strategic priority, with European allies stepping up their military presence, activities and investments in the region to ensure stability and deter adversaries. They reiterated that the Kingdom of Denmark — including Greenland — is a full member of NATO.

“Security in the Arctic must be achieved collectively,” the statement said, adding that efforts must be undertaken in close coordination with NATO allies, including the United States, and in line with the principles of the United Nations Charter such as sovereignty, territorial integrity and the inviolability of borders.

“These are universal principles, and we will not stop defending them,” the leaders said.

The statement emphasised the role of the United States as an “essential partner” in Arctic security, both as a NATO ally and through the 1951 defence agreement between Denmark and the US, which governs American military presence in Greenland.

Importantly, the leaders made an explicit assertion on Greenland’s political status, stating that the territory belongs to its people and that decisions concerning Greenland can only be taken by Denmark and Greenland themselves.

“Greenland belongs to its people. It is for Denmark and Greenland, and them only, to decide on matters concerning Denmark and Greenland,” the statement said.

The joint declaration comes as the Arctic gains prominence as a strategic theatre due to climate change, emerging shipping routes and heightened interest from major global powers, reinforcing Europe’s intent to safeguard stability in the High North through collective security and international law.