European politicians have issued a stern warning to the US President as NATO troops land in Greenland amid concerns that President Donald Trump may consider invading the island. Trump has escalated his rhetoric about acquiring the world’s largest island, an autonomous region of Denmark, insisting on its ownership. French military forces have arrived in Nuuk, Greenland’s capital, joined by soldiers from the UK, Germany, Sweden, and Norway.
French diplomat Olivier Poivre d’Arvor emphasized the significance of NATO’s presence to the US President upon the troops’ arrival, calling it a demonstration of NATO’s readiness.
Tensions have mounted globally following a meeting in Washington between Danish ministers and US senators JD Vance and Marco Rubio, where no resolution was reached, with Denmark’s foreign minister highlighting Trump’s persistent desire to “conquer” Greenland.
Denmark’s Foreign Minister Lars Løkke Rasmussen described the meeting’s outcome as a “fundamental disagreement” regarding the Arctic island’s future but confirmed ongoing dialogue between the nations. The Danish-led Operation Arctic Endurance has seen an influx of NATO soldiers on Greenland, with plans to bolster military presence on the island.
The UK dispatched a military officer at Denmark’s request for reconnaissance ahead of the Arctic Endurance exercise, emphasizing collaboration with NATO and other allied nations to enhance security in the High North.
Germany has also committed troops to Greenland temporarily, with a group of 13 soldiers scheduled to be present in Nuuk until Saturday. The duration of the French contingent’s stay remains uncertain.
Danish Prime Minister Mette Frederiksen has cautioned that any attempt by Trump to seize Greenland could jeopardize NATO and its alliances.
Trump’s rationale for acquiring Greenland, purportedly to thwart China and Russia’s influence, has drawn criticism. He asserted the necessity of ownership for defense purposes, warning of potential actions to secure Greenland by any means necessary.