Canadian Defence Minister Anita Anand has issued a firm statement backing Greenland's sovereignty and right to self-determination. This declaration of support comes at a sensitive time, as reports indicate that discussions about the potential annexation of the vast Arctic territory have resurfaced in Washington.
A Statement of Support in a Geopolitically Sensitive Region
The minister's backing was reported on December 24, 2025, highlighting Canada's position on the issue. While the exact context of the U.S. discussions was not detailed in the initial report, the mere mention of annexation talks introduces significant tension into Arctic geopolitics. Greenland, an autonomous territory within the Kingdom of Denmark, holds strategic importance due to its location and vast natural resources.
This development follows increased military activity in the region. As recently as September 15, 2025, a major NATO military exercise involving hundreds of troops from several European member states took place in the Arctic Ocean near Nuuk, Greenland's capital. The exercise underscored the growing focus on security and presence in the High North.
Strategic Implications for Canada and the Arctic
Canada's explicit support for Greenland's sovereignty aligns with its broader Arctic policy, which emphasizes international law, cooperation, and the rights of Indigenous and local populations. Any move by another power to alter Greenland's status would have direct ramifications for Canadian sovereignty and security in its own Arctic regions.
Anand's statement serves as a diplomatic marker, clearly stating where Ottawa stands on the issue. It reinforces the principle that the future of Greenland should be determined by its people, in consultation with Denmark, rather than by external geopolitical maneuvering.
The situation remains fluid, and the Canadian government's position will be closely watched by allies and partners in the Arctic Council and NATO. The defence minister's comments affirm a commitment to stability and respect for territorial integrity in a region that is becoming increasingly central to global strategic calculations.
