The European Commissioner for Defence and Space issued a warning to the United States, stating that any military seizure of "Greenland" would mark the immediate end of the NATO alliance. He emphasized that Article 42.7 of the European Treaty obliges members to send military assistance to Denmark if it is invaded, while Trump insists on controlling Greenland to block Russia and China.
Andrius Kubilius, European Commissioner for Defence and Space, told Reuters during a security conference in Sweden that he agrees with the Danish Prime Minister that any U.S. military attempt to seize Greenland would mark the end of NATO's role.
Kubilius said, "It would have a severely negative impact on transatlantic relations. Who would accept such an occupation? The consequences would spread to all areas, including trade, where the U.S. could face painful repercussions."
President Donald Trump continues to insist that the U.S. must "own" Greenland, an autonomous territory within the Kingdom of Denmark, citing strategic reasons to prevent Russia or China from dominating the mineral-rich Arctic region.
Although Denmark and Greenland have affirmed that Greenland is "not for sale," Trump has not ruled out the use of military force. On Truth Social on Monday (12 Jan), he declared, "I am the one who preserves NATO!!!"
The European Commissioner reiterated that under Article 42.7 of the European Union Treaty, all member states are obligated to assist any member facing military aggression. Should Denmark request help, the EU stands ready to support with military forces, infrastructure, warships, and drone defense systems to maintain Greenland's security.
Europe needs to strengthen its own military capabilities to prepare for independent national defense, in case the U.S. withdraws or ends its role in NATO.
Analysts view this tension as a critical test this week, as representatives from Denmark and the U.S. are scheduled to meet specifically to discuss Greenland.
Kubilius questioned whether the U.S. is willing to sacrifice long-standing trade relations and alliances with Europe for Arctic territory, warning that if NATO collapses as predicted, the global security framework established after World War II would be completely destroyed.