Greenland: Emmanuel Macron warns of cascading consequences if the sovereignty of an allied country is affected

“We do not underestimate the statements [of Donald Trump] about Greenland,” said French President in a cabinet meeting on Wednesday, January 14, as the US president has been expressing his intentions regarding Greenland, an autonomous territory of the Kingdom of Denmark.

“If the sovereignty of a European country and ally were threatened, the consequences would be unpredictable,” declared Emmanuel Macron, as reported by the government spokesperson Maud Bregeon. “France is closely monitoring the situation and will act in full solidarity with Denmark and its sovereignty,” he added.

The American president argued that the island, strategically located and rich in minerals, is vital for US security and they should own it to prevent Russia or China from occupying it. “NATO would be much more effective and formidable with Greenland in the hands of the United States,” he added, emphasizing it as a “vital” need for their missile defense shield project.

The Greenland and Denmark, supported by some EU countries, insist that the island is not for sale, threats of using force are irresponsible, and security concerns should be addressed among allies.

Meeting at the White House

The President of the European Commission, Ursula von der Leyen, reassured on Wednesday that the people of Greenland “can count on us”, ahead of a high-tension meeting between Danish and American officials regarding the autonomous territory. Danish and Greenlandic foreign ministers are set to meet Vice President J.D. Vance at the White House on Wednesday.

“It is important that Greenlanders know – by actions and not just words – that we respect their aspirations and interests,” stressed the EU executive chief in a press conference in Brussels. And she added: “Greenland belongs to its people.”

White House officials discussed various plans to bring Greenland under US control, including potential military intervention and offering lump sum payments to Greenlanders to convince them.