European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen has firmly reiterated that "the future of Greenland is only for the Greenlanders to decide," emphasising the sovereignty and territorial integrity of the nation. Speaking at the European Parliament's plenary session in Strasbourg, she delivered a stark warning about the need for Europe to transform its approach in response to a rapidly shifting global landscape.
Europe Must Adapt to a "Lawless World"
Von der Leyen stated that Europe must recognise it now inhabits "a world defined by raw power," urging the bloc to abandon its traditional caution. She argued that in this increasingly lawless environment, Europe requires its own levers of power to build greater independence and leverage its economic strength effectively.
Greenland's Strategic and Sovereign Significance
The Commission President highlighted Greenland's multifaceted importance, describing it as:
- A territory in a key region of the world map
- Land rich in critical raw materials
- A strategic outpost on emerging global sea routes
However, she stressed that above all, Greenland is home to a free and sovereign people, with an inherent right to determine its own destiny.
Warning Over US Tariff Threats
Von der Leyen repeated key lines from her recent Davos speech, cautioning that US threats of tariffs on EU partners concerning Greenland could precipitate "a dangerous downward spiral" in transatlantic relations. She warned such actions might embolden adversaries both sides are committed to excluding from the strategic landscape.
Continued Focus on Ukraine Support
Amid these broader geopolitical discussions, von der Leyen affirmed that it remains more important than ever to maintain focus on Ukraine, pledging the European Union's ongoing support for the war-torn nation. This underscores the bloc's commitment to stability and sovereignty amidst global challenges.
