Concerns are mounting within Germany’s governing coalition regarding the future of Greenland following renewed acquisition interests expressed by U.S. President Donald Trump. Security policymakers are voicing alarm and advocating for decisive action, signaling a deepening anxiety about transatlantic relations and Europe’s strategic autonomy.
CDU defense policy expert Roderich Kiesewetter characterized the threat to Greenland as “very serious and real” alleging a misinterpretation of Trump’s “Make America Great Again” slogan. He argued that the phrase is being taken literally, evidenced by the U.S.’s aggressive posture towards Venezuela and suggesting a potential U.S. ambition to physically expand its sphere of influence, possibly even its territory. Kiesewetter cautioned against a militaristic response, emphasizing that such action would be premature without a robust strengthening of European capabilities.
The core of the German concern revolves around the fear that Europe risks becoming a mere pawn in a broader geopolitical struggle between Washington, Moscow and Beijing. Kiesewetter urged a fundamental shift in European perspective, advocating for the recognition of Europe as a “geo-economic power” capable of developing its own defensive capabilities. He proposed cultivating reliable partnerships extending beyond Europe, specifically mentioning Japan, Taiwan, Australia, Canada and South America to bolster a system of “space defense.
Siemtie Möller, Vice-Chair of the SPD parliamentary group, echoed Kiesewetter’s unease, describing Trump’s repeated assertions about the strategic necessity of Greenland as “deeply concerning”. She stressed the German government’s responsibility to clearly communicate to American allies that the sovereignty of nations must be inviolable and that Greenland remains an autonomously administered part of the Danish Kingdom.
The rising anxiety transcends mere disagreement with Trump’s stated intentions. It points to a growing recognition within Berlin regarding the potential erosion of transatlantic trust and a demand for a more assertive European foreign policy – one capable of safeguarding its interests independently of and potentially against, the unpredictable actions of even its closest allies. The situation underscores the urgency for a reassessment of Europe’s strategic positioning in a rapidly shifting global order.