Berlin’s transatlantic coordinator, Metin Hakverdi of the Social Democratic Party (SPD), has urged a “constructive” dialogue with the United States following recent discussions surrounding potential US annexation plans for Greenland, underscoring a delicate balancing act between transatlantic solidarity and upholding international law.
In an interview with the “Rheinische Post”, Hakverdi emphasized the importance of a measured approach to the situation, stating that a “constructive discussion amongst allies” is crucial. He firmly reiterated Germany’s position – aligning with international consensus – that “Greenland belongs to Denmark and there is absolutely no doubt about it.
The US interest in Greenland, initially signaled by former President Trump, has been framed by Washington as a strategic response to escalating activity from Russia and China in the Arctic region. Hakverdi acknowledged the validity of this concern, noting ongoing discussions with US counterparts, particularly within the framework of NATO, regarding security dynamics in the Arctic. However, he sharply cautioned against allowing these strategic considerations to undermine the fundamental principle of territorial integrity.
“While President Trump rightly points to growing Russian and Chinese activity in the Arctic, which we continue to discuss with the United States, particularly within the context of NATO, there is no justification for questioning the territorial integrity of Denmark” Hakverdi stated.
The episode highlights a subtle tension within the transatlantic relationship. While Germany appreciates the shared security concerns driving US interest in the Arctic, the implications of even discussing territorial revisions challenge established norms and could set a precedent with potentially destabilizing consequences for other regions. Critics will argue that such discussions, regardless of their intended purpose, risk normalizing a revisionist approach to international borders, potentially emboldening other actors with territorial ambitions.
Hakverdi’s call for calm and a continued dialogue signals Berlin’s desire to navigate this sensitive situation while reinforcing the importance of upholding the rules-based international order that underpins the transatlantic alliance. The incident exposes the fragility of these principles, even amongst close allies and demonstrates the complexities involved in balancing strategic interests with legal and moral commitments.