Key insights
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1
European allies asserted Greenland’s status and borders: European leaders said Greenland belongs to its people, only Denmark and Greenland can decide their relations, and UN Charter principles on sovereignty, territorial integrity, and inviolability of borders should be upheld.
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2
US messaging included both military and non-military options: The White House said use of the US military was always an option, while US officials also discussed buying Greenland, commercial relationships, and a Compact of Free Association.
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3
Greenlanders expressed both fear and indifference toward US ownership: One Greenlander said the prospect was terrifying and raised concerns about invasion, while another said it would mean switching occupiers and focused on economic hardship as sea ice melts.
Takeaways
The US administration publicly kept multiple options on the table for acquiring Greenland while Denmark, European allies, and Greenlandic leaders and residents pushed back and called for respect for sovereignty and international law.
Topics
World & Politics International Affairs Diplomacy Security & Defense