### Tensions Rise Over Greenland: EU Commissioner Warns of NATO's Potential Collapse The geopolitical landscape is shifting as the European Commissioner for Defence and Space, Andrius Kubilius, has issued a stark warning regarding the implications of a potential U.S. military takeover of Greenland. This autonomous territory, part of the Kingdom of Denmark, is strategically significant due to its location and mineral resources. Kubilius emphasized that such an action would not only signify the end of NATO but also severely damage transatlantic relations. The U.S. has expressed interest in Greenland, with former President Trump suggesting that ownership is necessary to prevent Russian or Chinese influence in the Arctic region. Both Denmark and Greenland have firmly stated that the territory is not for sale, yet the possibility of U.S. military action remains a concern, especially as discussions between Denmark and the U.S. are set to take place soon [https://www.nation.com.pk/13-jan-2026/european-commissioner-says-us-takeover-greenland-end-nato]. ### Breakdown of the Situation: Key Points of Concern 1. **U.S. Interest in Greenland**: - Former President Trump has indicated a desire for U.S. ownership of Greenland to counteract foreign threats [https://www.arise.tv/eu-commissioner-warns-us-military-takeover-of-greenland-would-mean-end-of-nato]. 2. **NATO's Stability at Risk**: - Kubilius warns that a military takeover would lead to the dissolution of NATO, as it would violate the principles of mutual defense among member states [https://www.bairdmaritime.com/security/eu-commissioner-dramatically-warns-greenland-issue-could-end-nato]. 3. **EU's Commitment to Denmark**: - Under Article 42.7 of the EU Treaty, member states are obligated to assist Denmark in the event of military aggression, highlighting the seriousness of the situation [https://www.independent.ie/world-news/us-military-takeover-of-greenland-would-be-end-of-nato-eu-commissioner-says-as-taoiseach-insists-ireland-stands-with-denmark/a521412149.html]. 4. **Potential Consequences**: - Kubilius raised concerns about the broader implications of such an occupation, questioning who would recognize it and how it would affect trade and diplomatic relations between the U.S. and Europe [https://www.politico.eu/article/its-the-end-of-nato-if-donald-trump-invades-greenland-eu-commissioner-andrius-kubilius-warns]. ### Supporting Evidence and Data - **Statements from Officials**: - Kubilius's comments were made during a security conference in Sweden, where he reiterated the EU's readiness to support Denmark if faced with aggression [https://www.hawaiitribune-herald.com/2026/01/13/nation-world-news/european-commissioner-says-us-military-takeover-of-greenland-would-be-end-of-nato]. - **Public Sentiment**: - The potential for a U.S. military invasion has raised alarm among European leaders, with many expressing solidarity with Denmark and emphasizing the importance of NATO's unity [https://www.timeslive.co.za/news/world/2026-01-12-european-commissioner-says-us-military-takeover-of-greenland-would-be-end-of-nato]. ### Conclusion: A Critical Juncture for NATO and Transatlantic Relations In summary, the situation surrounding Greenland poses a significant threat to NATO's integrity and the stability of transatlantic relations. The following points encapsulate the key findings: 1. **U.S. Military Action Could End NATO**: A takeover of Greenland by the U.S. would fundamentally alter the alliance's structure and purpose. 2. **EU's Obligations**: European nations are bound to support Denmark under existing treaties, which could lead to a military response if aggression occurs. 3. **Long-term Implications**: The ramifications of such an action would extend beyond military concerns, affecting trade and diplomatic relations between the U.S. and Europe. The international community is closely monitoring these developments, as the stakes are high for both regional security and global alliances [https://www.devdiscourse.com/article/technology/3766750-natos-future-jeopardized-by-hypothetical-us-move-on-greenland].