We present idealized numerical experiments to test the main mechanisms that triggered the deglaciation of the past Eurasian ice sheet. Simulations were performed with the GRISLI2.0 ice sheet model. The results indicate that the Eurasian ice sheet was primarily driven by surface melting, due to increased atmospheric temperatures. Basal melting below the ice shelves is only a significant driver if ocean temperatures increase by nearly 10 °C, in contrast with the findings of previous studies.