Accra: Germany has dispatched troops to Greenland, responding to increasing European efforts to support Denmark against US demands for control over the Arctic territory. The mission underscores rising geopolitical tensions in the region.
According to Ghana News Agency, a German military transport aircraft departed for Denmark's Karup military base. Officers from several nations gathered there before embarking on a joint flight to Greenland, scheduled for Friday. This deployment follows French President Emmanuel Macron's announcement that French troops would join 'joint exercises' under Denmark's 'Operation Arctic Endurance.'
Sweden, the United Kingdom, Norway, and Finland have also confirmed their participation, albeit with limited personnel. The German Foreign Office stated that the 'reconnaissance' mission, led by Denmark, aims to explore ways to ensure security amid perceived Russian and Chinese threats in the Arctic. Thirteen German soldiers are slated to participate.
Greenland, an autonomous territory within the Kingdom of Denmark, has drawn significant attention from US President Donald Trump. Despite opposition from Copenhagen and European allies, Trump remains determined to assert control over the island for security reasons.
Following high-level discussions in Washington, Danish Foreign Minister Lars L¸kke Rasmussen acknowledged a fundamental difference of opinion between Denmark and the US regarding Greenland's future. Trump has maintained that only the US can secure the territory against Russian and Chinese threats.
The reconnaissance mission seems to demonstrate European powers' commitment to defend the Arctic, countering any potential unilateral US action to annex Greenland. Copenhagen has warned that such a move could jeopardize NATO's future.
German Defence Minister Pistorius emphasized the growing threat from Russia and China, noting their increased military activities in the Arctic. He asserted NATO's commitment to maintaining a rules-based international order and stressed the importance of coordination within NATO, particularly with US partners, under Danish leadership.
The German Defence Ministry confirmed Denmark's request for the German unit and other partners to travel together to Greenland aboard a civilian aircraft on Friday.
'From our point of view, the joint flight is a strong sign of our unity,' the statement added.