Denmark has moved swiftly to reinforce its military presence in Greenland amid rising geopolitical tensions following repeated threats by U.S. President Donald Trump to take control of the Arctic territory. According to Danish broadcaster TV 2, a substantial contingent of combat soldiers is expected to arrive in Kangerlussuaq, Greenland, with Denmark’s Army Chief, General Peter Boysen, accompanying the deployment.
The reinforcements come on top of approximately 100 Danish soldiers who have already arrived in Nuuk, Greenland’s capital. Danish officials say the troops will participate in intensive “Arctic Endurance” exercises, highlighting Copenhagen’s determination to safeguard the self-governing territory and demonstrate military readiness in the strategically vital Arctic region.
Trump’s renewed rhetoric has gone beyond political pressure, including threats of higher tariffs on European allies unless the United States is allowed to purchase Greenland. These remarks have triggered strong reactions across Europe. Germany and France have jointly rejected what they describe as “blackmail,” with senior officials warning that the European Union is prepared to respond with retaliatory tariffs worth billions of dollars if the U.S. escalates trade measures.
A German government spokesperson confirmed that countermeasures, including new tariffs, could be implemented as early as February if Washington follows through on its threats. EU leaders have emphasized the importance of presenting a united front to prevent further escalation of the trade dispute.
Meanwhile, UK Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer has urged restraint, cautioning that trade wars are “in no one’s interest.” While ruling out immediate retaliation, Starmer stressed that Greenland’s future must be decided by its own people. “The world is becoming more turbulent,” he said, adding that clarity of values and respect for sovereignty are crucial during times of rapid change.
As military movements and diplomatic tensions intensify, Greenland has once again become a focal point in the growing struggle for influence in the Arctic.