His silence in the face of the US president’s repeated threats to occupy it, which is an autonomous region of its kingdom, is causing concern and intense reflection in the European capitals.
As reported by the Financial Times, despite the seriousness of the statements, the Alliance has so far not issued any public position that explicitly affirms the territorial integrity and sovereignty of Denmark and Greenland.
The lack of response has caused discomfort among member states seeking to maintain a united European front and prevent further deterioration of transatlantic relations, especially at a time of heightened geopolitical tensions.
The limited public presence of NATO Secretary General Mark Rutte, who maintains a close political relationship with Trump, but has so far avoided meaningful interventions on an issue that touches the core of the Alliance, is particularly noticeable.
Trump has accused Denmark of failing, citing increased Russian and Chinese military activity in the Arctic, while the White House has even left open the possibility of military action.
An unprecedented crisis for NATO
Such a scenario, however, would present NATO with an unprecedented crisis, as it would mean a conflict between two member states, effectively challenging the collective defense clause of Article 5.
Copenhagen’s change of attitude reflects the depth of concern. Danish Prime Minister Mette Frederiksen said publicly that Trump “is serious” about his intentions and warned that a possible US military strike against a NATO country would effectively mean the end of the Alliance.
At the same time, Danish MPs request the activation of Article 4 of the NATO Treaty, which provides for consultations in the event of a threat against a member state.
At the same time, . European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen underlined that “law is stronger than violence”, while the leaders of France, Germany, Italy, Poland, Spain and the United Kingdom issued a joint statement with Denmark, pledging to defend sovereignty and the inviolability of borders.
Plan to invade Greenland
The issue was further complicated by reports that Trump had reportedly asked US special forces to draw up a plan to invade Greenland, while political parties on the island clarified that.
As European diplomats point out, the Greenland crisis highlights the limits and contradictions of European security at a time when the main ally is simultaneously turning into a source of instability.
