China distances itself from the Greenland controversy while cautioning Europe against heavy dependence on the US as tensions strain transatlantic ties
China has sought to distance itself from the growing international
row over Greenland, even as it uses the moment to caution Europe against over-reliance on the United States. The controversy was triggered by US President Donald Trump’s renewed push to take control of the Arctic territory from Denmark, unsettling Nato allies and fuelling debate over transatlantic security ties.
Responding to questions about whether Beijing saw an opportunity to expand its influence amid the turbulence, China’s foreign ministry pushed back firmly. “We have no intention of competing for influence with any country, nor would we ever do so,” foreign ministry spokesperson Guo Jiakun said at a regular press briefing.
Beijing denies playing power politics
China’s comments were aimed at dispelling suggestions that it might seek to exploit divisions among Western allies. Officials stressed that Beijing does not want to be drawn into the Greenland issue, which has become a flashpoint in relations between Washington and European capitals.
Trump’s rhetoric and his reported threats of trade tariffs against European countries have added to concerns about the durability of long-standing alliances, particularly Nato. While China has avoided taking sides, the situation has given its state-run media an opening to question the reliability of the US as a security partner for Europe.
Chinese state outlets have been more outspoken than diplomats. Editorials in publications such as the Global Times and China Daily have argued that the Greenland episode exposes the risks of Europe depending too heavily on Washington for its security and strategic direction.
Commentary in these outlets has suggested that Europe should pursue greater strategic autonomy and diversify its partnerships, framing the current tensions as evidence that US policy can be unpredictable and driven by domestic politics. Although these views stop short of endorsing any alternative security framework, they align with Beijing’s long-running call for a more multipolar world order.
Neutral stance, strategic messaging
Analysts say China’s approach reflects a careful balancing act. On one hand, Beijing is keen to avoid being seen as interfering in a sensitive dispute involving Nato members and the US. On the other, it is using the broader debate to reinforce its message that US dominance in global affairs is waning.
By publicly stressing neutrality while allowing state media to highlight Western divisions, China is positioning itself as an observer rather than a participant—but not a silent one.
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