Key Facts
• On January 6, 2026, leaders of major European countries issued a joint statement on Greenland.
• They emphasized that the future of Greenland belongs to its residents.
• Only Denmark and the Greenlandic self-government can decide on sovereignty issues.
• The statement indirectly restrained U.S. President Trump’s ambitions over Greenland.
• Italy, Poland, Spain, and Denmark also joined the declaration.
• The Arctic’s security is a top European priority and vital for global and Atlantic security.
• Europe and its allies are enhancing presence, activities, and investments to deter hostile forces.
• Denmark, including Greenland, is part of NATO.
• Arctic security must be achieved jointly by NATO allies, including the U.S.
Summary
On January 6, 2026, major European leaders including those from the United Kingdom, France, and Germany, issued a joint statement affirming that the future of Greenland, a Danish autonomous territory, is the prerogative of its residents. They stressed that only Denmark and Greenland’s self-government have the authority to decide on sovereignty matters, signaling a clear check on U.S. President Trump’s expressed ambitions to acquire Greenland. The statement, supported by Italy, Poland, Spain, and Denmark, underscored the Arctic’s strategic importance for European, global, and Atlantic security. It highlighted ongoing efforts by Europe and its allies to strengthen their presence and investments to counter hostile forces. Reaffirming Denmark’s NATO membership, the leaders called for coordinated Arctic security efforts among all NATO members, including the United States.
