Many European countries have deployed small groups of soldiers to Greenland to support Denmark in preparing for exercises, as US President Donald Trump continues to push for demands on the strategically located island.
Copenhagen affirmed that it is promoting a plan to build a "larger and more long-term" NATO presence in Greenland.
The deployment of European forces took place immediately after the meeting between representatives of the US, Denmark and Greenland failed to make a breakthrough. After the meeting, Mr. Trump reiterated his view that Denmark cannot fully protect Greenland from potential threats from Russia or China.
Mr. Trump believes that this mineral-rich island plays a vital role for US security and does not rule out the possibility of using force. Greenland and Denmark reject that stance, emphasizing that the island is not for trading and warning that the threat of using force is reckless.
Danish Defense Minister Troels Lund Poulsen said there is no final figure on the scale of NATO expansion, but emphasized that the plan will be implemented throughout 2026 to show that Arctic security is the common responsibility of the entire NATO bloc.
Some EU countries have publicly supported Denmark, warning that the US's use of military measures against NATO territory could seriously damage the future of the alliance.
According to Danish military analysts, Europe's deployment carries two messages: Showing readiness to protect Greenland and responding to US criticism by strengthening its presence, protecting sovereignty and improving surveillance. Previously, Denmark had about 150 soldiers and civilian personnel working at the Joint Arctic Command on the island.
The White House believes that sending troops from Europe does not affect Mr. Trump's goal of Greenland. Meanwhile, Russia rejects the argument that Moscow and Beijing are a threat to the island, but warns that it will not ignore it if its Arctic interests are ignored.
Germany, France, Sweden, Norway, Finland and the Netherlands have announced the deployment of military personnel to prepare for larger exercises. France deploys about 15 highland terrain combat experts; Germany deploys a reconnaissance team of 13 people; Sweden sends 3 officers; Norway 2 officers; Finland 2 liaison officers; Netherlands 1 naval officer; England sends 1 officer to participate in the reconnaissance team.
