The Minister of Defense, Margarita Robles, has not dismissed the possibility that Spain might participate in the European military mission in Greenland, in light of U.S. President Donald Trump’s intention to take control of the island, though she cautioned against jumping to conclusions.
“Enhancing surveillance in Greenland could be an option, but we will see what unfolds today. We should not rush,” Robles stated to the press as she arrived at Congress for her appearance before the Official Secrets Committee at 8:30 a.m.
Robles’ comments followed announcements from France, Germany, Sweden, and Norway regarding the deployment of troops to the Danish territory to explore potential cooperation for enhanced regional security.
“We are in constant agreement with our allies. We will see what is discussed in today’s meetings,” she noted, clarifying that any European mission would focus on “surveillance.”
Caution
The minister has maintained a cautious stance, emphasizing the need to monitor developments throughout the day, during which “meetings are taking place.” “We will assess how things progress and make decisions accordingly,” she remarked.
When asked if she believed a U.S. seizure of Greenland could signal the end of the Atlantic Alliance, she responded negatively, although she found such an action “unacceptable.”
“It would be extremely serious if that occurred, but we will proceed with caution regarding our decisions, prioritizing the respect for established frameworks that encourage prudence and discretion in determining solutions,” she stated.
Robles advocates for a legal response from the EU
The Minister of Defense expressed that if the U.S. were to seize Greenland, the European Union’s reaction should focus on legal principles concerning sovereignty and international order, rather than a military approach.
In response to media inquiries about Spain sending troops to Greenland following Trump’s threats, the minister pointed out that no European nations have dispatched troops per se, only reconnaissance units.
Robles urged a “cautious” approach and suggested waiting. “Based on the actions taken and decisions made, we will respond, but it should be clear that what has been deployed at this time are not military troops; these are reconnaissance missions,” she explained.
She also stated that there has been no proposal for a military mission either within the European Union or the Atlantic Alliance. Furthermore, she emphasized that “Spain never undertakes a mission alone; it always collaborates with allies and other nations.”
Robles reiterated that Spain’s stance is one of patience and prudence, while “staying aligned with our allies” on potential actions.
Ultimately, should Trump proceed with his threat, “a legal issue regarding sovereignty would undoubtedly emerge,” although “the preferred scenario is to avoid that situation entirely.” (January 15)
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