European tensions have escalated dramatically after Denmark issued a stark warning regarding the defence of Greenland, its vast Arctic territory. The Danish defence ministry has reaffirmed a long-standing military doctrine that orders its soldiers to "shoot first and ask questions later" in the event of any foreign invasion, a directive that gains chilling relevance amid growing anxiety over statements from former US President Donald Trump.
Cold War Doctrine Reactivated for Modern Crisis
The directive, originally instituted in 1952 during the height of the Cold War, mandates that troops stationed in Greenland must "immediately take up the fight" if attacked. Crucially, they are required to act without waiting for political clearance or formal orders from commanders, even if a formal declaration of war has not been received. Danish officials clarified to the Berlingske newspaper that this provision applies universally, regardless of the identity of the invading force.
This forceful reaffirmation comes directly in response to repeated assertions from Donald Trump, who has refused to rule out using military force to annex Greenland. The White House has stated that Trump is still "considering all options," a stance that has sent shockwaves through European capitals and heightened unease among Denmark's NATO allies.
Europe Rallies Behind Denmark, Seeks Unified Stance
European leaders are now urgently working to formulate a coordinated response to the potential US threat. Governments across the continent have expressed solidarity with Copenhagen. French Foreign Minister Jean-Noel Barrot highlighted the need for collective action, stating he would discuss the issue with German and Polish counterparts.
"We want to take action, but we want to do so together with our European partners," Barrot emphasised in an interview with France Inter radio. He added that US Secretary of State Marco Rubio had attempted to distance the Greenland scenario from the recent US assault on Venezuela, but European trust remains fragile.
Despite these diplomatic assurances, Denmark's public restating of its shoot-first policy underscores the seriousness with which it views the threat and its preparation for a possible escalation.
The Lure of Cash: US Plan to Woo Greenlanders Revealed
Alongside the military posturing, a parallel strategy of financial persuasion has emerged. According to sources cited by Reuters, the Trump administration is considering a controversial plan to offer direct cash payments to Greenland's citizens to encourage a break from Denmark and closer ties with the United States.
The proposal, still in preliminary stages, involves offering lump sum payments ranging from $10,000 to $100,000 per person to the island's approximately 57,000 residents. With such figures, the total cost could approach a staggering $6 billion. Greenland, a semi-autonomous Danish territory, is rich in natural resources, making it a strategic prize.
An alternative being discussed is a Compact of Free Association, similar to agreements the US holds with Pacific island nations. This would provide financial aid and defence in exchange for military access, but would likely require Greenland to first gain independence from Denmark. The cash payments could be used to foster public support for such a move.
However, this plan faces significant hurdles. While polls indicate most Greenlanders favour eventual independence from Denmark, surveys also show they do not wish to become part of the United States. The situation presents a complex geopolitical puzzle, blending historical defence pacts, modern great-power rivalry, and the aspirations of a small Arctic population.
