Nicosia: The European Union has issued a strong signal of solidarity with Greenland and Denmark as international focus sharpens on the Arctic, with EU Council President Antonio Costa stressing that the bloc will oppose any violation of international law.
Speaking in Cyprus as the country assumed the rotating presidency of the EU Council, Costa said decisions regarding Greenland could only be made by its people and in consultation with Denmark. He stressed that the territory and Denmark had the full backing and solidarity of the European Union.
His remarks come after US President Donald Trump reiterated his desire for the United States to gain control of Greenland, arguing that the island holds critical importance for American military strategy. Trump has also claimed that Denmark has failed to adequately protect the territory.
Costa warned that the global rules-based order was under increasing pressure and called on EU member states to defend international norms. He said the European Union would oppose breaches of international law wherever they occur, naming Cyprus, Latin America, Greenland, Ukraine, and Gaza as examples where legal principles must be upheld.
Cyprus understands the importance of building bridges, fostering dialogue, and working toward inclusive, European solutions.
Together, we will ensure that our Union remains united, acting decisively for the benefit of all our citizens. https://t.co/IWUwK4jjzi
— António Costa (@eucopresident) January 7, 2026
He added that Europe would continue to act as a consistent and reliable defender of international law and multilateral cooperation.
Greenland, an autonomous territory within the Kingdom of Denmark, has gained growing strategic significance due to its location in the Arctic and the region’s increasing geopolitical and security importance.
The comments signal a firm European response as global tensions rise over territory, security, and influence, particularly in strategically sensitive regions.
