According to the UN Secretary-General António Guterres, the US views its power as more important than international law, believing multilateral solutions are irrelevant. Guterres noted a clear conviction by the US that prioritizes its own influence, sometimes disregarding international norms. He expressed concern over the UN’s struggle to enforce its charter, particularly with major powers wielding greater leverage. Guterres criticized the UN Security Council, suggesting its structure is outdated and ineffective, with veto powers furthering individual interests.
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White House Deputy Chief of Staff Stephen Miller presented a novel legal defense for President Trump’s Greenland acquisition plans, arguing that Denmark’s inability to adequately defend the territory justifies the U.S. claim. Miller asserted that Denmark’s “tiny” military and economy failed to meet the historical criteria for territorial control. Trump has threatened military action and imposed tariffs on several European countries until a deal is reached, claiming the acquisition is crucial for world peace and American security. Furthermore, Trump believes the acquisition is necessary due to perceived threats from China and Russia in the Arctic region, leading to widespread protests in Denmark and Greenland.
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Speaking after a trade agreement signing, EU officials confirmed their commitment to upholding international law, coordinating a joint response among member states to the situation. This follows former U.S. President Trump’s announcement of tariffs on several countries, citing the deployment of military personnel to Greenland and his desire to purchase the territory. An emergency meeting of EU ambassadors has been called to address the situation, while national security advisors are already in contact. The Danish Foreign Minister has responded, clarifying the purpose of the military presence in Greenland.
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The New York Times reported that a US military aircraft was allegedly disguised as a civilian plane during a September strike on a suspected drug smuggling boat. This action raises concerns of a potential war crime, as the concealment of military insignia and weaponry could constitute an act of “perfidy” under international law. The report suggests the aircraft lacked military markings and swooped low enough for the targets to see it. The article further details the September 2nd attack, including the possibility of a “double tap” strike, and discusses subsequent boat strikes that were conducted with clearly marked military aircraft.
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German Finance Minister Lars Klingbeil emphasized that international law applies to all nations, including the United States, in response to potential actions regarding Greenland. He stated that the future of Greenland should be decided by Denmark and Greenland, respecting their territorial sovereignty. Klingbeil’s comments came before the G7 meeting, where discussions would revolve around securing access to critical minerals to reduce dependence on China. Germany aims to enhance international cooperation to ensure a reliable supply and economic stability.
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In an interview with The New York Times, President Donald Trump stated his “own morality” is the primary constraint on his power to order military action, asserting he doesn’t necessarily need to abide by international law. This follows an increasingly aggressive military posture, including operations in Venezuela, and threats against other countries and territories. Trump also expressed a desire for the US to possess Greenland, citing psychological needs, and signaled he may not be concerned about his family’s foreign business dealings in his second term. Furthermore, Trump discussed his views on China and Taiwan, and NATO, and indicated a potential choice between the military alliance and acquiring Greenland.
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After a U.S. strike on three boats in the Pacific Ocean on December 30, the U.S. military abandoned its search efforts for survivors who had jumped into the sea. The Coast Guard called off the search citing a “declining probability of survival,” and a government official confirmed the individuals were presumed dead. These deaths are a part of a larger campaign, with at least 117 civilians killed in 35 attacks since September. Experts and members of Congress have denounced the strikes as potentially illegal extrajudicial killings, as the U.S. has shown a pattern of not assisting survivors and withholding key information regarding the strikes.
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EU Council President Antonio Costa recently affirmed the European Union’s support for Greenland and Denmark, emphasizing that decisions regarding Greenland’s future must involve its people. Costa’s statement was made in response to U.S. President Donald Trump’s expressed interest in acquiring Greenland, which Trump views as crucial for U.S. military strategy. Highlighting the importance of international law, Costa asserted that the EU would not tolerate violations regardless of the location. He further underscored the EU’s commitment to upholding international law and multilateralism.
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The US continues to refer to the oil tanker Marinera as the Bella 1 due to questions surrounding its flag status. The vessel, formerly the Bella 1, was falsely flagged under Guyana before obtaining temporary permission to sail under the Russian flag. Experts suggest the mid-voyage flag change implies a lack of due diligence, potentially rendering the vessel effectively stateless under international maritime law. The US boarding of the vessel, despite its claimed change of registry, indicates it views the flag change as illegitimate.
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Despite the Trump administration’s celebration of the successful capture of Nicolás Maduro in Venezuela, international entities like the United Nations have voiced concerns, citing potential repercussions for global safety. Domestically, these actions have triggered calls for President Trump’s impeachment, with Democratic lawmakers and figures like California State Senator Scott Wiener denouncing the operation as illegal. Rep. Delia C. Ramirez of Illinois and others echoed these sentiments, labeling the operation a “kidnapping” and a violation of international law. Some, like Rep. Dan Goldman, allege the operation’s true motive involves controlling Venezuela’s oil resources, while the White House defends the operation as lawful.
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John Q. Hosedrinker