On January 8, 2025, German Chancellor Olaf Scholz and French Foreign Minister Jean-Noël Barrot addressed recent comments made by former US President Donald Trump regarding Greenland. Scholz emphasized the principle of inviolability of borders, stating, 'This principle applies to every country, regardless of its size or power.' He indicated that discussions among European colleagues revealed a certain misunderstanding regarding Trump's statements.
Barrot reiterated France's position, asserting that the European Union would not permit any nation to infringe upon sovereign borders. He expressed skepticism about the likelihood of a US invasion of Greenland, which has been a Danish territory for over 600 years yet enjoys significant autonomy.
The European Commission dismissed Trump's threats as 'very hypothetical,' underscoring the need for respect for state sovereignty. A spokesperson confirmed that any attack on Greenland would invoke a mutual defense clause among EU member states. Trump's remarks included the potential use of military or economic pressure to assert control over Greenland and the Panama Canal, leading to criticism from affected parties.
Greenland's Prime Minister Múte B. Egede stressed, 'Greenland belongs to the Greenlanders,' during a visit to Denmark, where he met with King Frederik X. He reiterated the island's sovereignty and its non-negotiable status regarding ownership.
Trump's recent comments about expanding US territory have reignited discussions about Greenland's resources and strategic significance, a topic he previously raised during his presidency. Meanwhile, Canada has firmly rejected any notion of US control over the Panama Canal, with Prime Minister Justin Trudeau emphasizing the canal's sovereignty.
As political dynamics evolve, experts suggest that Trump's statements may be part of a broader negotiation strategy rather than immediate military intentions, raising questions about future US involvement in Greenland and the Panama Canal.