Europe Mobilizes Troops in Greenland Amid Trump’s Threats of U.S. Takeover

Nuuk/Washington: European nations are stepping up military preparations in Greenland in response to repeated threats by U.S. President Donald Trump to take control of the territory. President Trump has emphasized that he will not accept anything less than full American control of Greenland, with the White House considering military options to secure the island.

In response, Germany and France announced on Wednesday that they will deploy troops to Greenland alongside other European countries. The German Defense Ministry said that a 13-member reconnaissance team has been sent to Greenland’s capital, Nuuk, at Denmark’s request. The mission is part of a military exercise aimed at assessing conditions for potential European military contributions to support Denmark in ensuring regional security.

French President Emmanuel Macron confirmed that France, the European Union’s only nuclear power, will also send troops. Sweden has pledged to participate in the European military mission, while the Netherlands and Canada are reportedly planning similar deployments. These announcements followed high-level talks in Washington between officials from the U.S., Denmark, and Greenland, including U.S. President J.D. Vance, the Secretary of State, and Denmark’s Foreign Minister, Lok Rasmussen.

Trump Cites Russia and China Threats

During the discussions, President Trump reiterated his stance that Greenland is critical for U.S. national security and warned that if the island is not under American control, Russia and China may seize it. Danish Foreign Minister Rasmussen described Trump’s position as “unnecessary” but acknowledged ongoing disagreements.

Working Group Formed to Resolve Dispute

Both sides agreed to form a working group to address differences, with Denmark emphasizing the importance of respecting its “red lines” while addressing U.S. security concerns. Denmark has already announced plans to strengthen its military presence in Greenland.