European countries have begun sending military personnel to Greenland as Denmark and its allies prepare exercises to reinforce the island’s security amid US interest. The deployments aim to reassure US President Donald Trump while asserting Denmark’s sovereignty over Greenland, which Trump has suggested acquiring due to its strategic location and natural resources.
A meeting on Wednesday between officials from the US, Denmark, and Greenland avoided public tension, but no immediate resolution emerged regarding Trump’s ambitions.
Danish Prime Minister Mette Frederiksen emphasised that US interest in Greenland remains, describing it as a “fundamental disagreement” and stressing Denmark’s efforts to prevent any unilateral acquisition.
Trump has justified his stance by citing potential Russian and Chinese influence in the Arctic, arguing that Greenland is vital to US security. Russia, however, dismissed these claims as exaggerated and warned against escalating confrontations, while Greenland and Denmark maintained that the island is not for sale.
European nations, including Germany, France, Sweden, Norway, and the Netherlands, have expressed support for Denmark, warning that any US military attempt could undermine NATO.
The initial European deployment to Greenland is small. Germany has sent a reconnaissance team of 13, Sweden and Norway are sending officers, and France has deployed about 15 mountain specialists, with further reinforcements planned.
A Danish Air Force plane recently landed at Nuuk airport as part of the preparations, and the UK and the Netherlands have also contributed personnel.
Officials explained that the deployment serves two purposes: to deter potential US military action and to demonstrate Denmark’s commitment to sovereignty and enhanced Arctic surveillance.
Following the US-Denmark meeting, a working group will address concerns regarding Greenland. Greenland’s Prime Minister Jens-Frederik Nielsen reiterated that the island will remain under Danish governance and part of NATO, emphasizing the need for unity, calm, and responsible management of the situation.
