Four years ago, despite rising tension, few people believed a Russian invasion of Ukraine would actually happen. In those innocent days it would also have sounded far-fetched to suggest that the US would try to annex, possibly militarily, Greenland.
Now churches in Greenland are reporting “widespread anxiety” among their congregations that some form of US action may occur.
Bishop Paneeraq Siegstad Munk, of the Diocese of Greenland, told the World Council of Churches that Greenland is "not for sale".
She said she is praying for peace in an uncertain world.
”It is critical to stay calm in a situation like this. Prayers heal and give meaning. We pray each Sunday for the Kingdom of Denmark and the autonomous government of Greenland," she said.
She continued, ”People are clearly worried. This is a question of human rights, dignity, and respecting international laws and treaties.
"We are a small people, but we are not invisible. Our future is not something to be decided over our heads."
Potential US military action against Greenland would likely have dire implications for NATO, as one NATO member would be invading the territory of another, potentially requiring all other NATO members to side with Denmark.
The closest NATO has ever come to such an incident was during the Cyprus crisis of 1974, in which Turkey militarily intervened against a pro-Greek government. While Cyprus was not a NATO member at the time, Turkey and Greece were and their forces did engage in combat on the island.
In response to the ongoing crisis, Bishop Munk said it was important to work across borders. She urged American citizens to contact their elected representatives and make clear that they support the right of Greenlanders to self-determination.
She added, "We have language, culture, ancestors, children, and a future tied to this place. We are people, not property. Greenland is not land to be bought. It is our home and it is not for sale.”
