The European Union has responded to U.S. President Donald Trump’s repeated calls for the United States to assume control of Greenland by offering the territory significant financial support and reaffirming its commitment to Greenland’s sovereignty. European officials intensified attention on the island after Trump’s claims raised concerns about the integrity of Greenland’s status as a semi‑autonomous territory of Denmark.
During a visit to Nuuk, European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen pledged 200 million euros over the next two years to help Greenland address climate change, expand internet connectivity, and improve education, fisheries and hydropower infrastructure. She also announced plans to double EU budget support to about half a billion euros from 2028 and signed an EU‑Greenland declaration with Prime Minister Jens‑Frederik Nielsen and Danish Prime Minister Mette Frederiksen. “Greenland’s future is for the people of Greenland and Denmark to decide,” von der Leyen said, underscoring the importance of territorial integrity and sovereignty.
The EU’s financial package includes funds for better housing, support for small businesses and sustainable tourism. In a speech, Nielsen described the EU as a “loyal and trusted friend” and thanked European partners for their support amid new challenges. Danish Prime Minister Frederiksen echoed this sentiment, noting the gratitude for global backing.
Meanwhile, Denmark and seven other European allies deployed a small military contingent to Greenland in January for exercises aimed at strengthening Arctic security and demonstrating support for Greenland’s sovereignty. Trump threatened tariffs on Denmark, Finland, France, Germany, the Netherlands, Norway, Sweden and the United Kingdom in response, but the move was reversed after NATO agreed to boost Arctic security. The visit coincided with 11 NATO countries conducting military exercises in Greenland involving around 400 personnel, including special forces from Canada, Denmark and Finland, while no U.S. troops participated in the Arctic Shield drills running from September 7 to 18.
