How do the Baltics feel about plans for a US "acquisition" of Greenland? | DW News

Key Concepts

• Greenland Acquisition: Potential US interest in acquiring Greenland, sparking diplomatic concerns.
• NATO Integrity: The implications of a potential US acquisition of Greenland for the stability and cohesion of NATO.
• Ukraine Security Guarantees: The current state and limitations of security guarantees offered to Ukraine by European partners and the US.
• German Shift in Policy: Germany’s evolution from reliance on Russian energy (Nord Stream 2) to a strong partner in supporting Ukraine and bolstering Eastern European security.
• Russian Aggression & European Solidarity: The impact of Russia’s actions in Ukraine on European unity and the re-evaluation of security priorities.

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Geopolitical Concerns & US-Denmark Relations Regarding Greenland

The interview centers around US interest in acquiring Greenland, initially brought to light by comments from Marco Rubio, US Secretary of State. Rubio confirmed President Trump’s longstanding interest in the matter, noting it wasn’t a new consideration and that previous US presidents had also explored the possibility. He is scheduled to meet with Danish officials next week to discuss the situation, but declined to comment further on potential military intervention.

Lithuanian President Gitanas Nausėda expressed his belief that such an acquisition is unlikely and that disagreements should be resolved through dialogue. He emphasized Greenland’s importance for geopolitical and Arctic stability and advocated for cooperation between the US and European partners in the region. He underscored Lithuania’s full solidarity with Denmark, a European Union member, while acknowledging legitimate US geopolitical and economic interests in Greenland.

Nausėda stated that a US takeover of Greenland from a NATO ally would be “impossible to imagine” and would severely damage NATO’s integrity. He referenced Danish Foreign Minister Meta Frederiksen’s assertion that such an action would effectively end NATO. The US already maintains military bases in Greenland, granting it existing access.

Security Guarantees for Ukraine & the Role of European Partners

The discussion then shifted to the security guarantees offered to Ukraine. Nausėda explained that these guarantees are contingent upon a ceasefire and peace agreement, which are currently absent. He highlighted the 20-point peace plan presented but noted the lack of a substantive response from Russia.

He acknowledged President Zelenskyy’s desire for more concrete commitments regarding figures and capabilities, stating that these are not yet available. However, he indicated that military leaders will continue discussions in the coming weeks to develop more specific plans. The core issue is that guarantees remain “in the pipeline” without a Russian acceptance of the peace plan.

Germany’s Evolving Role & Commitment to Lithuania

Germany’s commitment to Lithuania’s security was another key topic. A German brigade is currently being deployed to Lithuania, with full deployment expected by the end of 2027, and the process is reportedly on schedule, even ahead in some areas.

Nausėda affirmed his trust in Germany’s commitment to fulfilling its promises, citing the inauguration of Ray Matal company construction and plans for propellant production in Lithuania as evidence of strong cooperation. He described Germany as a “trusted partner” in both military and economic spheres.

From Nord Stream 2 to Strong Partnership: Germany’s Transformation

Nausėda detailed the shift in Germany’s approach to Russia, tracing it back to the early days of the war in Ukraine. He recalled witnessing large-scale protests in Berlin against the war, which he believes served as a “wake-up call” for Germany. He noted the significant change in public opinion and the subsequent leadership role Germany has taken in supporting Ukraine and aligning with Lithuania’s views.

He contrasted this with Germany’s previous engagement with the Nord Stream 2 pipeline project, highlighting Lithuania’s long-held skepticism about Russia’s intentions. He emphasized that the war in Ukraine has fostered greater solidarity and mutual understanding within the European Union.

The Importance of Unity & Strength in Addressing Russian Aggression

Nausėda stressed the importance of maintaining a unified front among European leaders and focusing on shared principles of territorial sovereignty and national freedom. He criticized Russia’s negotiation tactics, stating they “negotiate with guns, not diplomatic manners.” He emphasized the need to strengthen Ukraine’s position in negotiations through continued support and military aid.

He concluded by stating that restoring peace requires standing together and supporting Ukraine, as Russia responds to strength, not diplomacy. He underscored that the current situation demands a collective approach, focusing on shared values and principles.

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Technical Terms & Concepts:

• NATO (North Atlantic Treaty Organization): A military alliance established in 1949 to provide collective security against the Soviet Union.
• Geopolitical Stability: The balance of power and influence between nations, impacting regional and global security.
• Arctic Stability: The maintenance of peace and security in the Arctic region, increasingly important due to climate change and resource competition.
• Nord Stream 2: A controversial natural gas pipeline from Russia to Germany, completed but never operationalized due to geopolitical tensions.
• Security Guarantees: Commitments by nations to defend or assist another in the event of an attack or threat.
• Brigade: A major tactical military unit, typically consisting of 3,000-5,000 soldiers.

Data & Statistics:

• Deployment of a German brigade to Lithuania, expected to be fully operational by the end of 2027.
• Initial protests in Berlin against the war in Ukraine: 1,000 people, growing to 100,000 the following day.

Synthesis/Conclusion:

The interview reveals a complex geopolitical landscape marked by concerns over potential US actions regarding Greenland, the ongoing need for robust security guarantees for Ukraine, and the significant shift in Germany’s foreign policy. Lithuania’s President Nausėda consistently emphasized the importance of dialogue, solidarity within NATO and the EU, and a unified response to Russian aggression. The key takeaway is that maintaining a strong, coordinated approach among Western allies is crucial for deterring further conflict and achieving lasting peace in the region.