Denmark confirms standing order to defend Greenland

Denmark's defence ministry said a 1952 military rule requires forces to engage immediately if Greenland is attacked and that the order remains in force; Denmark and Greenland will meet U.S. officials next week to discuss the matter.

Denmark has confirmed that a Cold War–era military order requiring forces to resist attacks on Greenland immediately remains in force, after renewed comments from U.S. officials about the island. The matter has drawn international attention because U.S. officials have discussed options including purchasing Greenland or expanding U.S. defence arrangements there, and the White House said using military options is a possibility. Several European leaders have publicly defended Greenland's sovereignty in joint statements. A meeting between Denmark, Greenland and U.S. officials is scheduled for next week to discuss the issue. Key facts: - The Danish defence ministry told Danish newspaper Berlingske that a 1952 order on precautionary measures requires attacked forces to "immediately take up the fight" and that the order remains in force. - U.S. officials have reportedly explored options ranging from purchase to increased U.S. military presence in Greenland, and the White House has said military options are among those discussed. - Denmark and Greenland will take part in a meeting with U.S. officials next week, as announced by U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio and confirmed by Greenland's government. - Leaders from several European countries issued a joint statement supporting Greenland's territorial integrity and reaffirming defence commitments. Summary: The Danish confirmation highlights that existing military rules call for immediate resistance to any attack on Greenland, and the statement has focused diplomatic attention on the matter. Discussions between Denmark, Greenland and U.S. officials are planned for next week, and European partners have publicly expressed support for Greenland's sovereignty.