NATO Allies Deploy Troops to Greenland Amid Rising Arctic Security Concerns
Denmark and several NATO allies, including Germany, Canada, the Netherlands and Sweden, are deploying troops to Greenland for military exercises amid rising security concerns in the Arctic.
Danish Defence Minister Troels Lund Poulsen confirmed the deployment, saying the drills aim to strengthen the allies’ ability to operate in the region as geopolitical tensions increase. He cited growing Russian and Chinese activity in the Arctic, as well as heightened concerns following recent statements by U.S. President Donald Trump suggesting Washington needs Greenland for national security purposes.
According to Denmark’s Defence Ministry, the exercises will involve receiving allied forces, operating fighter jets, and conducting maritime security tasks. Danish aircraft, naval vessels, and personnel will take part, alongside troops from several European and Arctic partner countries.
Swedish Prime Minister Ulf Kristersson said Swedish military officers have already arrived in Greenland to participate in preparations for the Danish-led exercise Operation Arctic Endurance. France has also announced plans to open a consulate in Greenland in early February, describing the move as a political signal and an effort to increase its presence in the territory.
German media reported that Berlin may contribute mountain troops, naval, and air force personnel, with planning coordinated in Copenhagen rather than through NATO headquarters. Greenland’s authorities have repeatedly stated that the island is not for sale and have reaffirmed their alignment with Denmark, NATO and the European Union.
Kursiv Ubekistan also reports that Uzbekistan has taken a major step toward gender equality in the transport sector by abolishing long-standing legal restrictions that prevented women from working as bus and heavy truck drivers.
