German Foreign Minister Johann Wadephul is scheduled to meet US Secretary of State Marco Rubio this week to discuss NATO's role in Greenland's stability.
US media, citing informed sources, revealed that Berlin will propose a plan to Washington for a joint NATO military presence in Greenland to ensure Arctic security. The plan, named "Arctic Guardian", is similar to NATO's "Baltic Guardian" operation launched a year ago to protect strategic infrastructure in that sea.
Sources indicate the idea is receiving support from UK Prime Minister Keir Starmer. He believes the best approach for Europe is to demonstrate "soft and hard power utility" to US President Donald Trump, ranging from the issue of Ukraine to US security concerns.
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The US Pituffik Space Base in Greenland in 10/2023. *Reuters*
NATO Supreme Commander Europe Alexus Grynkewich confirmed that alliance members are discussing Greenland's status. He noted there is "no immediate threat" to NATO territory, but the strategic importance of the Arctic region is rapidly increasing.
European countries increased coordination after the White House affirmed President Trump's desire to purchase Greenland and did not rule out the possibility of using force. However, the US emphasized that the goal is negotiated acquisition, not military intervention.
During a press conference on 11/1 in Iceland, Wadephul affirmed that Arctic security is increasingly important for all NATO members, but stressed that Greenland's future must be decided by the people of Greenland and Denmark. "If the US President is concerned about risks from Russian and Chinese warships in the region, we can sit down together and find solutions," the German Foreign Minister stated, adding that Berlin is ready to "take on more responsibility" for ensuring security in the Arctic.
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Map showing the US, Greenland, and Denmark. *CNN*
Meanwhile, Denmark still hopes diplomatic visits to Washington this week can help de-escalate tensions. The Danish Foreign Minister stated they would counter what Copenhagen views as "factual errors and exaggerated security arguments."
Danish Prime Minister Mette Frederiksen warned that the country faces a "decisive moment" in the diplomatic confrontation with the US over Greenland, asserting that Copenhagen is ready to defend its values, international law, and the people's right to self-determination. Germany, Sweden, and several other European nations have voiced support for Denmark.
By Thanh Danh, with reporting from AFP, Reuters, and Bloomberg
