Finland firmly supports Denmark’s sovereignty over Greenland and the right of its people to self-determination, while emphasizing diplomacy over confrontation with the United States within NATO, Finnish Foreign Minister Elina Valtonen said.
Speaking to Al Jazeera on the sidelines of the World Economic Forum in Davos, Switzerland, Valtonen stressed that any discussion of “buying or selling” Greenland infringes on Danish sovereignty. “This is not the path that should be taken,” she said, adding that disputes should be resolved through existing diplomatic channels and alliances.
Valtonen highlighted Finland’s close cooperation with the United States to safeguard NATO security, noting her country’s extensive experience in Arctic security issues and its role in training US troops for operations in extreme polar conditions. “There is no need to provoke threats from China or Russia,” she added.
Limited Troop Deployment Not Targeting US
Addressing Finland’s planned deployment of a limited number of troops to Greenland at Denmark’s request, Valtonen clarified that the move is not aimed at confronting the United States. Rather, it reflects a broader European commitment to Arctic security as a collective NATO responsibility.
On the War in Ukraine
Valtonen also voiced hope for an end to what she described as “Russia’s aggressive war in Ukraine,” urging the international community to intensify efforts to protect state sovereignty and enable the Ukrainian people to determine their own future.
She condemned ongoing Russian attacks on civilians, infrastructure, and energy facilities, noting that these assaults continue amid harsh winter conditions.