Article

The US administration's threats to annex Greenland raise significant legal issues under international law, EU law, and Danish law. President Trump has suggested military force might be considered, complicating NATO's collective defense obligations.

Denmark retains sovereignty over Greenland, which has self-determination rights recognized under the 2009 Self-Government Act. Greenland's relationship with the EU is unique, as it is an associated overseas territory.

The legality of potential annexation involves interpreting mutual assistance obligations under Article 42(7) TEU and the principle of self-determination, particularly regarding consent for territorial transfer. The situation has caused concern among NATO allies about internal cohesion and collective defense, especially if one member threatens another's territory.

Diplomats from Greenland and Denmark are set to address these tensions with US officials. The discourse highlights the strategic importance of Greenland amid increasing geopolitical competition in the Arctic.