If Europe yields on the issue of territorial claims, it could face severe global consequences, warns António Costa as US-Europe tensions rise over Greenland’s future.

"On Tuesday, the president of the European Council stated, 'We ought to prioritize respecting Denmark’s territorial integrity and also acknowledge the self-determination rights of Greenland’s inhabitants,'" he emphasized.

It is critically important, not just for Europe but for the entire globe," he emphasized. "Abandoning territorial integrity would unleash a Pandora’s box affecting every region, from Asia to the Americas.

Greenland, which enjoys significant autonomy within the Kingdom of Denmark, has once again captured public attention following an announcement from Usha Vance, spouse of the United States' Vice President JD Vance. She plans to tour the region with visits scheduled for various cultural events, including observing the annual sled-dog competition. Ms. Vance is expected to land on Thursday.

The American delegation will additionally feature Mike Waltz, serving as the national security advisor, along with Chris Wright, who is the energy secretary, though they will be traveling independently.

The visit has reignited concerns that the U.S., led by Donald Trump, might attempt to annex Greenland. Trump has not dismissed the possibility of employing economic pressure and military power to take control of this vast region, which is seen as strategically significant due to its position in the Arctic Sea. its rich deposits of mineral resources.

Trump's warning has alarmed the EU and put pressure on the transatlantic relationship, further complicating matters as this alliance is also under strain due to another conflict - Russia's annexation of Ukraine.

"Respecting universally acknowledged boundaries is a fundamental principle," Costa stated during his address at an event hosted by the European Policy Centre (EPC).

He continued by saying that respecting the sovereignty and self-determination of various peoples is crucial for living within a rule-based system.

The alternative to a rule-based system is chaos, which poses significant dangers to humanity, commerce, and our future prospects. It’s essential to maintain this orderly structure so that all aspects can function effectively.

Costa’s warnings follow sharp comments from Greenland’s Prime Minister Múte Egede and Denmark’s Prime Minister Mette Frederiksen, who both officially stated that Usha Vance's visit was unwanted and improper.

Describing the journey as "extremely aggressive" and "not at all" harmless, Egedede said. took particular exception due to the inclusion of Mike Waltz, the national security advisor, on the journey.

"What is the security advisor’s role in Greenland? The sole objective appears to be showcasing military strength as a message to us, one that should leave no room for misinterpretation," Egede stated.

In an interview on Tuesday, Frederiksen mentioned Egede's remarks, stating that it was "apparent that when you conduct such a visit, and the Greenlandic politicians explicitly express their disapproval of the visit, it cannot be seen as a sign of respect."

"I have to say that it is unacceptable pressure being placed on Greenland and Denmark in this situation. And it is pressure that we will resist," Frederiksen told Danish media .

Private visits with officials from another country are not allowed.

Trump says the visit It emphasizes "friendliness rather than provocation," yet he persists in viewing the island through the prism of national and international security. This perpetuates the notion that a military assault remains a possibility.

"I believe Greenland might become part of our future plans. I think it holds significance for international security," Trump stated on Monday.

It can't continue as it is. This situation won’t persist as it currently stands.