EU Politicians Threaten to Send Troops to Greenland Amid Tensions with Trump
EU politicians have threatened to send European troops to Greenland to bolster Denmark’s military presence in the Arctic, following US President Donald Trump’s renewed vow to buy the island. The move is seen as a show of support for Denmark and a warning to the US that EU countries will not back down in the face of Trump’s demands.
The announcement comes as part of a EUR 2 billion boost to Denmark’s military presence in the Arctic, which includes the deployment of three new naval vessels, two drones, and increased Arctic basic military training. The move is aimed at “improve capabilities for surveillance and maintaining sovereignty in the region”.
The EU’s top military official, General Robert Brieger of Austria, has endorsed the idea of stationing EU troops in Greenland, saying it would “send a strong signal and contribute to stability in the region”.
French Foreign Minister Jean-Noël Barrot also indicated that France had started discussing troop deployment with Denmark, although it was not “Denmark’s wish” to proceed with the idea.
Meanwhile, Kaja Kallas, the EU’s foreign policy chief, has ruled out negotiating with Trump over the issue, stating that the bloc is “not negotiating” with the American President. She emphasized that the EU will support its member state, Denmark, and its autonomous region, Greenland, but would not engage in speculation about what-ifs.
Trump’s latest comments, made in an Air Force One press room, sparked concern in Europe, with many viewing his assertions as an attempt to bully and intimidate European nations. The EU has vowed to stand firm against Trump’s demands, with several European officials calling for a united front against the American President’s aggressive tactics.
As tensions continue to escalate, the EU and Denmark are taking a hard line, with Danish Prime Minister Mette Frederiksen and Greenland’s leader, Múte Egede, both emphasizing that the island is not for sale. Egede has called for the people of Greenland to determine their own future, with many residents expressing a desire to maintain independence and self-determination.
The row has sparked a war of words, with some EU officials accusing Trump of trying to bully and intimidate, while others view his actions as a genuine attempt to protect global security and freedom. The situation remains fluid, with many questions unanswered as to what the future holds for Greenland and its relationship with the EU and the US.