EU pledges more support, investment in Greenland

BRUSSELS — The European Union on Monday sought to reassure Greenland with the promise of a stronger partnership and hundreds of millions of euros in investment following repeated threats from President Trump to take control of the island. During a visit to Nuuk, European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen offered 200 million euros — $232 million — in support over the next two years to help Greenland tackle climate change, boost internet connections, improve hydropower plants, fisheries, and education. The EU has increased its focus on Greenland since Trump began insisting the United States should take control for security reasons, raising sovereignty concerns and tensions among NATO allies.

"Greenland’s future is for the people of Greenland and Denmark to decide. No one else," Von der Leyen said. "Territorial integrity, sovereignty, the inviolability of borders are fundamental principles of international law." Funds are also earmarked for better housing, support for small businesses, and sustainable tourism.

Von der Leyen also said she wants to double EU budget support to Greenland to about half a billion euros, or $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. Nielsen described the EU as "a loyal and trusted friend" amid new challenges Greenland faces alone.

"Through these challenging times, your support to us is unfailing," he said. "We feel it and are deeply grateful." The Trump administration pressured Denmark, which sent military personnel to Greenland for Arctic security exercises. Trump threatened tariffs on Denmark and seven allies, but NATO agreed to boost Arctic security, and Trump backed down.

Meanwhile, 11 NATO countries began military exercises in Greenland on Monday, involving about 400 personnel, including special forces from Canada, Denmark, and Finland. No U.S. troops participated in the Arctic Shield drills.

Source: Los Angeles Times