Germany sends soldiers to Greenland on Thursday as part of a reconnaissance mission coordinated with other European nations, the German government and defence ministry confirmed today.
The deployment follows growing international attention on the strategic importance of the island and comes after President Donald Trump renewed calls for the United States to seek control over Greenland. As a result, European governments have moved to demonstrate support for Denmark and reinforce regional cooperation.
The mission will take place at Denmark’s request and will run from Thursday to Saturday. According to a statement from the German defence ministry, the operation will assess how European partners can contribute to bolstering security in the Arctic region.
Officials said the soldiers will focus on reconnaissance tasks and explore potential areas of military support. For example, the ministry noted that maritime surveillance could become a key element of future cooperation.
Germany’s participation signals a broader European effort to coordinate security planning in the Arctic. Earlier on Wednesday, Sweden and Norway also announced plans to send military personnel to Greenland. Consequently, the mission reflects a collective response by Nordic and European states to evolving security dynamics in the region.
Trump remarks intensify diplomatic strain
President Donald Trump has repeatedly stated in recent weeks that Greenland is vital to US national security due to its strategic location and vast mineral resources. He has argued that the United States must own the island and has said that all options remain on the table to secure it. These comments have intensified diplomatic tensions between Washington and European capitals.
Greenland remains an autonomous territory under the Kingdom of Denmark, and Copenhagen has firmly rejected any suggestion of transferring sovereignty. European leaders have stressed respect for international law and territorial integrity while emphasizing the importance of cooperation rather than confrontation in Arctic affairs.
The German defence ministry said the current mission does not involve combat operations. Instead, it aims to gather information, build coordination among allies, and support long-term security planning. Officials added that Europe will continue to engage through diplomatic and defence channels to ensure stability in the strategically sensitive Arctic region.
