German Foreign Minister, Johann Wadephul, on Monday dismissed fears of a US attack on Greenland, downplaying President Donald Trump’s repeated threats to take over the island from NATO ally Denmark, according to AFP.
Speaking after talks with US Secretary of State Marco Rubio, Wadephul ruled out a unilateral military move by President Donald Trump, noting that he had “no indication that this is being seriously considered.”
“Rather, I believe there is a common interest in addressing the security issues that arise in the Arctic region, and that we should and will do so,” he told reporters.
Greenland
Greenland represents an autonomous territory within the Kingdom of Denmark.
Through its own parliament and administration, the island governs itself, while Copenhagen continues to oversee foreign affairs and defense.
Trump has recently intensified his push for Greenland’s annexation, claiming that the Arctic territory should join the United States.
“We need Greenland from the standpoint of national security, and Denmark is not going to be able to do it,” Trump said in response to a reporter’s question.
NATO Plans on Greenland
Wadephul said that NATO was still drafting concrete plans on the issue. These plans will be jointly reviewed with US partners once finalized.
German FM’s visit precedes high-level talks in Washington this week, where Rubio will meet with senior diplomats from Denmark and Greenland.
Strategic Location
Greenland’s strategic location between Europe and North America makes it a critical site for the US ballistic missile defense system.
Moreover, the island’s rich mineral reserves align with Washington’s broader goal of decreasing reliance on China.
On Friday, Trump again suggested using force to take over Greenland, dismissing Denmark’s control over the Arctic island.
“We are going to do something on Greenland, whether they like it or not,” Trump said at a White House meeting.
Trump said that he wants to make a deal—the easy way. But if that fails, we’ll do it the hard way.
US National Security
Trump argued that securing the mineral-rich island is vital to US national security as Russia and China are increasing their military activity in the Arctic.
“We’re not going to have Russia or China occupy Greenland. That’s what they’re going to do if we don’t. So, we’re going to be doing something with Greenland, either the nice way or the more difficult way,” Trump added.
In recent years, both nations have increased military operations in the Arctic. However, neither has staked a claim to the vast icy island.
Related Topics:
Greenland Opposition Leader Urges Direct US Talks without Denmark
Denmark Summons US Envoy as Greenland Tensions Escalate
Trump Eyes Greenland Purchase as White House Keeps Military Option Open
