Negotiations between America and Denmark regarding Greenland have failed and tension has increased. Denmark has clearly said that despite the latest talks with America, President Donald Trump’s stance has not changed and America is still keeping an eye on this strategically important Arctic region. After the meetings at the White House, Danish Foreign Minister Lars Løkke Rasmussen told the media that it is completely clear that the US President wishes to take control of Greenland. He described this as a fundamental difference between the two countries. At the same time, six NATO countries including Denmark have increased their military deployment in Greenland.

What did Denmark say?

Rasmussen said that Denmark had hoped that the misunderstandings that had arisen regarding Trump’s statements could be resolved through talks, but this could not happen. Rasmussen met US Vice President JD Vance and Foreign Minister Marco Rubio. During this time the Foreign Minister of Greenland was also present. Denmark clearly stated that any action that does not respect Denmark’s territorial integrity or the right to self-determination of the people of Greenland is completely unacceptable.

Why does Trump want to take Greenland?

Greenland is an autonomous territory under Denmark, but has long been a center of strategic interest for the US. America also runs a military base there. Trump has consistently argued that control over Greenland is essential for America’s national security. He has also linked it to the proposed missile defense system and has even said that NATO should support this stance of America. Denmark has vehemently rejected these claims of Trump. Rasmussen said Danish intelligence agencies have found no evidence of the presence of any Chinese warships around Greenland for nearly a decade. He made it clear that the claim of immediate maritime threat from China or any other country is not based on facts.

Although differences are deep, Denmark has not closed the door to dialogue. Rasmussen said that both sides have agreed to form a high-level working group so that possible areas of cooperation can be discussed and tensions can be reduced. He said that we disagree on many issues, but also agree to move forward with disagreement.

Denmark increased troops in Greenland

Meanwhile, considering the situation, Denmark has started preparations to increase its military presence in Greenland. According to local media reports, Denmark has already sent an advance command unit to Greenland, which will prepare logistics and infrastructure for the future deployment of more troops and resources. On Denmark’s appeal, so far six NATO countries have agreed to send military personnel to Greenland. These include Sweden, Norway, Germany, France, Netherlands and Canada. The Prime Minister of Sweden said that this step has been taken under Denmark’s military exercise Operation Arctic Endurance. Norway and Germany have also announced to send a limited number of soldiers and experts.

France and Canada have also confirmed their participation in joint exercises around Greenland. All the countries have made it clear that this deployment is symbolic and its purpose is not to adopt an aggressive stance, but to show NATO solidarity.

The troops of NATO countries entered the field

• Under Operation Arctic Endurance, the military presence of six countries is going to increase in Greenland.
• Denmark- Danish Armed Forces will increase their presence and conduct joint exercises.
• Sweden- Swedish Armed Forces officers have already reached Greenland.
• Norway- Norway will send two military officers to explore possibilities of cooperation.
• Germany- A reconnaissance team of 13 soldiers is being sent between 15–17 January.
• France is also taking part in the joint exercise at the request of Denmark; His first unit has left.