Post by : Meena Ariff

Military forces from France and Germany arrived in Greenland on Thursday as Denmark, along with its European allies, launched preparations for joint military exercises. These maneuvers aim to strengthen Arctic defense and address U.S. concerns about the island's security, after President Donald Trump suggested the United States should acquire Greenland.

The autonomous Danish territory, known for its strategic location and rich mineral resources, has drawn attention from both the U.S. and global powers. Trump argued that Greenland must not fall under Russian or Chinese influence, claiming Denmark cannot fully secure it. He stated that all options, including military action, were being considered to protect U.S. interests.

Denmark and Greenland firmly rejected these claims, insisting the island is not for sale and warning that threats or force would undermine international norms. Several European countries, including Germany, France, Sweden, and Norway, have supported Denmark, emphasizing that any unilateral U.S. action could damage NATO’s credibility.

In response to the heightened tensions, Denmark and Greenland have stepped up their military presence on the island in coordination with NATO allies. European forces are preparing for larger exercises later this year. The German military deployed a reconnaissance team of 13 personnel to Nuuk, while French forces are also en route, signaling a clear message of deterrence to Washington.

Experts note that these deployments serve dual purposes: to show readiness to defend Greenland and to demonstrate that Denmark is taking U.S. security concerns seriously. Danish authorities confirmed that the Danish Armed Forces and their European partners will explore ways to strengthen Arctic defense and enhance surveillance over the region.

Following talks at the White House with U.S. officials, Denmark and Greenland agreed to form a working group to discuss security and strategic issues. However, they reiterated that Washington’s insistence on acquiring Greenland is unacceptable and would violate Danish sovereignty.

Footage from Nuuk airport showed Danish military personnel arriving for the exercises, underscoring the growing European commitment to defending Greenland. France emphasized that NATO and EU support ensures the security of the Arctic region as a whole, sending a strong signal to the United States and other global actors.

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