Greenland Agreement: Don't give in

Only those in the know still know what exactly will be ceremonially signed in New York next week. As the world waits for details on the new agreement between the United States, Denmark and Greenland, it is hearing nothing but enthusiasm from those involved about what has been achieved. The agreement gave the USA everything it had wanted, said the US President. The Nordic contracting parties emphasize that it will provide the necessary security in the geopolitically sensitive North Atlantic, while at the same time guaranteeing Denmark's sovereignty and Greenland's right to self-determination. Also what they would have wanted from the start.

This agreement is obviously a reason to be happy, but at the same time the question remains: Couldn't it have been cheaper? Why the global political uncertainty caused by Donald Trump's macho airs about wanting to annex Greenland? Maybe it would have been enough if he had traveled to Copenhagen and Nuuk to say: We have to talk about Greenland. More statesman, less bulldozer – perhaps again in the future.

But at least it is possible to find something positive in Trump's actions in this case: in view of the external threat, Denmark was forced to step up its efforts to achieve a better relationship with the former colony. In the end, Greenland may have benefited on several levels. The price, however, was high. The people there had to live for too long with the latent fear that their fate would once again be decided over their heads.

The taz is an independent, left-wing and opinionated daily newspaper. We have been arguing in our comments, essays and debate texts since the taz was founded in 1979. We often cannot and do not want to agree on an opinion. That's why you'll find some completely opposing positions here - all part of the very broad left-wing spectrum of opinions.

What Nuuk and Copenhagen have shown together: It pays not to be intimidated by a seemingly overpowering opponent. Another positive side effect would be that consistent steadfastness against Trump could serve as a role model for other victims of bullying.