European NATO Allies Expand Military Presence Around Greenland

Several European countries will expand their military presence around Greenland, the Danish Armed Forces announced Wednesday.

“The geopolitical tensions have spread to the Arctic,” the Danish Ministry of Defence said. “From today, there will be an expanded military presence in and around Greenland – in close cooperation with NATO allies.”

The countries involved in the expanded military deployment include Germany, France, Sweden, and Norway, which are all members of NATO. According to the Danish Armed Forces, the increase will include aircraft, vessels, and soldiers, with contributions from other NATO allies.

The announcement follows statements by President Donald Trump, who has repeatedly said that the United States should take control of Greenland for national security reasons. Trump said Russian and Chinese vessels are threatening the Danish-controlled island.

Greenland is a self-governing territory within the Kingdom of Denmark, with control over most domestic affairs, while Denmark retains authority over foreign policy and defense. Denmark has consistently maintained that Greenland is not for sale, despite U.S. discussions about options, including the purchase of the territory and financial incentives for residents.

On Wednesday, Danish and Greenlandic leaders met with American officials, including Secretary of State Marco Rubio and Vice President JD Vance, at the White House. 

The Danish leaders attending the meeting are expected to hold a press conference later on Wednesday afternoon.

On Wednesday morning, Trump reiterated his view that Greenland is “vital” for the U.S. missile defense system, the so-called “Golden Dome,” and urged NATO to take the lead. “The United States needs Greenland for the purpose of National Security… If we don’t, Russia or China will, and that is not going to happen!” he wrote.

Trump added that NATO’s effectiveness depends on American strength and that Greenland under U.S. control would make the alliance “far more formidable.”