EU calls for Arctic security investment, eyes European icebreaker amid Greenland tensions

European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen called Thursday for a significant boost in Arctic security investment, proposing that Europe's rising defense spending be used for specialized equipment such as a European icebreaker. Speaking after an EU leaders' meeting in Brussels, von der Leyen stated, "We have collectively underinvested in the Arctic and Arctic security. So now it is high time to step up," emphasizing the geopolitical necessity of strengthening cooperation with the US, UK, Canada, Norway, and Iceland.

Reaffirming Support for Greenland and Rejecting Coercion

Von der Leyen announced the Commission will present a "substantive package of investments" for Greenland, whose strategic importance has fueled recent US interest and tariff threats. European Council President Antonio Costa reiterated that Denmark and Greenland have the EU's "full support," welcoming the US decision to suspend tariffs as "positive" but warning that the bloc "will defend itself against any form of coercion." Costa stressed that EU-US relations should be "cordial and respectful" and that both share an interest in Arctic security, particularly through NATO.

Doubts Over US-Led Gaza "Board of Peace"

Costa also expressed the EU's "serious doubts" about the structure and mandate of the US-proposed "Board of Peace" for Gaza, citing concerns over its scope, governance, and compatibility with the UN Charter. He affirmed the EU's readiness to work with the US on implementing the Gaza peace plan—based on UN Security Council Resolution 2803—but underscored that any transitional administration must align with international law and UN frameworks.

Progress on Ukraine Support and Post-War Framework

Von der Leyen reaffirmed that the EU is "doubling down" on support for Ukraine, including the delivery of emergency generators this week. She noted that work is advancing on a "single unified prosperity framework" with the US and Ukraine to outline a post-war vision for the country's reconstruction and modernization, calling it a "strong signal" of long-term commitment.