U.S. President Donald Trump has been warned that any renewed push to take control of Greenland could trigger a sharp response from European allies, including the possibility of seizing U.S. military bases in Europe.
Self-proclaimed chair of Austria’s NATO Enlargement Committee, Gunther Fehlinger-Jahn, has warned Trump against such a move, underscoring the rising tensions over sovereignty, alliance unity, and security in the Arctic.
Greenland and the Return of a Controversial Idea
Trump first shared the idea of acquiring Greenland during his first tenure in office.
Recently, during rallies and interviews, President Trump has described Greenland as a critical asset for U.S. security and resource dominance, echoing his 2019 proposal.
Denmark, which governs Greenland, firmly rejected the proposal, insisting the territory is not for sale and that its people have the right to determine their own future. The idea was widely criticized across Europe as unrealistic and diplomatically reckless.
Danish Prime Minister Mette Frederiksen has urged the U.S. to stop what has been described as threats against a historically close ally and reaffirmed that Greenland is not for sale.
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“I strongly urge the United States to cease its threats against a historically close ally, and against another country and another people who have stated very clearly that they are not for sale,” the statement read.
Denmark has further stated that it is determined to resist any external pressure regarding Greenland’s status.
Now, with Trump once again making headlines and signaling a more aggressive approach to U.S. foreign policy, European officials have rejected his plans.
Europe’s Warning: US Bases Could Be Seized
The most striking part of the Austrian official’s warning was the suggestion that European countries could seize or restrict U.S. military bases on their soil in retaliation for a forced move on Greenland. The United States operates dozens of bases across Europe, which are central to NATO’s defense posture, especially in Eastern Europe, where deterrence against Russia remains a top priority.
“If you take it, we take every single base of the Americans from Aviano to Ramstein, from Romania to all the other military bases, will be confiscated and you will lose it. And the whole position of American power since World War II, if you take Greenland, you have to leave. It’s very simple, Mrs. Miller,” said Gunther Fehlinger-Jahn.
Gunther argued that Europe would not simply issue diplomatic protests but could respond with tangible measures if Greenland were taken control by Trump.
On their part, European leaders argue that any attempt to pressure Denmark or bypass international norms would undermine the very foundations of NATO, which is built on mutual respect for sovereignty.
Also Read: Trump Now Wants to Grab Greenland
Legal Framework for Acquiring Greenland
Strict international and domestic rules govern any attempt to transfer Greenland’s sovereignty.
Under international law, territorial acquisition must occur through a voluntary treaty of cession between states, in accordance with the principle of self-determination established in the UN Charter.
Force or threats invalidate any agreement, as the use of force against territorial integrity is prohibited. In past remarks, Danish Prime Minister Mette Frederiksen warned that any attempt to seize Greenland forcibly would spell the end of NATO.
In a joint statement, European leaders, led by the United Kingdom’s Prime Minister Keir Starmer and France President Emmanuel Macron, also vowed to defend Denmark against any attempt to seize part of its territory.
