Ursula von der Leyen visits Greenland as EU prepares €200 million investment package

Ursula von der Leyen arrived in Nuuk under bright sunshine as the European Union moved to strengthen its ties with Greenland, the vast Arctic island Donald Trump has repeatedly coveted. During her two-day visit, the European Commission president is expected to announce a new investment package worth €200 million.

Her program includes meetings with the prime ministers of Greenland and Denmark, a boat trip among icebergs, and the signing of a joint declaration between the EU and Greenland. The message she is expected to emphasize is direct: Greenland, an autonomous territory within the Kingdom of Denmark, should remain alongside Europe rather than the United States.

“What happens in the Arctic directly affects the rest of Europe, and a strong partnership with Greenland is crucial to our position in the region,” European Commissioner for International Partnerships Jozef Síkela said. He is part of von der Leyen’s delegation.

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What happens in the Arctic directly affects the rest of Europe, and a strong partnership with Greenland is crucial to our position in the region.

The visit follows a major crisis triggered by Trump’s threats to annex Greenland. The U.S. president has even discussed the possible “use of force” to take control of the strategically important island, which also has mineral resources including rare earths. Trump cited national security concerns linked to alleged threats from Russia and China. Tensions eased after Denmark, Greenland and the United States formed a working group, but European governments have continued to signal solidarity with Greenland and Denmark.

Von der Leyen’s visit also coincides with the start of the Arctic Shield military exercise, involving troops from 10 NATO member states. The investment pledge and the military gathering underline the significance Europe places on its relationship with Greenland as pressure from Washington remains a concern.

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use of force