Denmark boosts military presence in Greenland and Arctic, defense minister says
Danish Defense Minister Troels Lund Poulsen (photo: Getty Images)
Ahead of a trilateral meeting at the White House involving Greenland, the United States, and Denmark, Copenhagen announced an expansion of its military contingent in the Arctic and Greenland, Danish Defense Minister Troels Lund Poulsen said, according to Barron's reports.
This decision was made after criticism from Washington over insufficient security measures in the strategic autonomous territory.
"We will continue to strengthen our military presence in Greenland, but we will also have an even greater focus within NATO on more exercises and an increased NATO presence in the Arctic," Troels Lund Poulsen said.
The minister added that Denmark "has an ongoing dialogue with its Allies about new and increased activities in 2026."
Why the United States is interested in Greenland
Security issues related to Greenland and the Arctic are currently among the most acute topics within NATO. The United States views the island not merely as a territory, but as a fundamental military platform for strategic monitoring and deterrence in the polar region.
The debate over the island's status intensified when Donald Trump publicly stated that the United States wanted to purchase Greenland from Denmark.
The situation has also been fueled by statements from diplomats: US special envoy for Greenland Jeff Landry accused Copenhagen of the de facto seizure of the island after World War II, triggering a wave of outrage in the Danish government.
Denmark is currently seeking to maintain sovereignty over the island by offering the United States and NATO a compromise, expanding its military presence, and holding large-scale exercises in 2026 rather than making political concessions.
Germany has officially confirmed its intention to take part in strengthening security in Greenland and the Arctic within the Alliance.
Berlin stressed that the region's strategic significance requires a comprehensive defense approach and constant coordination among all NATO allies.
Meanwhile, US President Donald Trump has threatened Greenland's prime minister over the desire to remain with Denmark. The American leader announced "a big problem" for the Greenlandic politician.
