The EU is calling for a renewed Arctic policy as security and geopolitical challenges in the region intensify, the bloc's foreign policy chief Kaja Kallas said Tuesday at the Arctic Frontiers Conference in Norway.

Addressing the high-level gathering, Kallas highlighted the strategic importance of Greenland, noting its critical raw materials, key submarine routes, and its location along the shortest flight path for "Russian ballistic missiles."

She said recent shifts in US policy mark a "structural shift" in transatlantic relations that has been felt acutely in the High North.

"The EU understands that Greenland is strategically important for the United States. It is also strategically important for us in the European Union," the foreign policy chief noted.

"The future of Greenland is for the Greenlanders and Denmark to decide," Kallas stressed, reaffirming the EU's support for its member state Denmark and adherence to the UN Charter.

"It is time for a fresh EU Arctic policy, one that reflects the times we live in," she said, grounded in strong partnerships with Norway, Canada, Iceland, and other Arctic nations.

Kallas emphasized that security in the region extends beyond military considerations, encompassing resilient societies and sustainable livelihoods.

"NATO remains the cornerstone of security in Europe, ... but let's not forget that ... European Union is heavily engaged in defense itself," she added.

She said the EU is approaching Arctic security with caution, aiming to protect its interests without provoking conflict.

"Of course, we are cautious because there’s a lot at stake," Kallas said, citing the ongoing war in Europe, economic coercion, and challenges from China affecting jobs, salaries, and societal stability.

She stressed that the EU does not seek confrontation but must maintain credible defense capabilities to act as a deterrent.

"If you have such big risks, also the military threats, then you also need to work on building the defense that is acting as a deterrence. So, we might not need it if the deterrence is strong enough," she said.

Greenland 'hopeful, optimistic' to find common ground

Vivian Motzfeldt, Greenland's minister of foreign affairs, expressed gratitude for international support while emphasizing the importance of dialogue and respect for international law.

"What we are dealing with, what we are defending is, rather than just the issue of Greenland and our future. This is as much about principles that we all care about. At times like these, call for cooperation, dialogue and respect," she said.

Motzfeldt noted that Greenland is pursuing a diplomatic solution through negotiations and stressed the importance of allowing working groups to continue their efforts.

"What we have been going through have been intense and hectic and there still are. ... We are pursuing a diplomatic solution through negotiations. I am hopeful and optimistic that we will find common ground that respects our red lines," she added.

US President Donald Trump has called for US control over Greenland, citing national security concerns related to Russia and China. He also threatened sanctions on European countries which opposed the move to take over the Danish territory.

He withdrew the threats after his meeting with NATO Secretary-General Mark Rutte at the World Economic Forum in Davos, saying a framework for a deal involving Greenland and the broader Arctic region was established.

Talks between the US, Denmark, and Greenland began last week to resolve the crisis.