Ursula von der Leyen announces that the EU will invest 200 million euros in Greenland, amid Trump's pressure

European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen is expected to announce a substantial package of European investments and stronger political relations with the Danish Arctic territory during her two-day visit to Greenland, which begins Monday. The measures aim to support Greenland and Denmark amid pressure from the Trump administration for the United States to take control of the island.

The European investments are expected to cover critical minerals, satellite communications and renewable energy. In Nuuk, von der Leyen did not provide details about the package’s value, but said it would be “substantial.” Greenlandic Prime Minister Jens-Frederik Nielsen reaffirmed his desire to develop the partnership with the European Union.

The visit comes as the Arctic gains increasing strategic importance, with melting ice facilitating access to new shipping routes and mineral resources. Von der Leyen also drew attention to the effects of climate change on the ice sheet.

Greenland left the European Union in 1985, but its residents are Danish citizens and, consequently, EU citizens. The Union already funds local projects, including in education and fisheries. Tensions over the island’s status have increased following statements by Donald Trump, reiterated at the NATO summit in July. Talks that began in January between the United States, Denmark and Greenland have so far failed to produce an agreement. (AP)