France sends troops to Greenland amid US annexation tensions

Thursday 15 January 2026 - 13:50

By: Dakir Madiha

France sends troops to Greenland amid US annexation tensions

French President Emmanuel Macron has ordered the deployment of military specialists to Greenland to join Denmark's Arctic Endurance operation, signaling Europe's firm stance against recent US overtures to acquire the territory. The initial group of about 15 mountain warfare experts is already en route to the Arctic island, following an extraordinary defense council meeting in Paris. This move comes after high-level talks at the White House exposed deep divisions over President Donald Trump's persistent claims that the US must control Greenland for national security reasons.

The Washington discussions involved Denmark's Foreign Minister Lars Løkke Rasmussen, Greenland's Foreign Minister Vivian Motzfeldt, US Vice President JD Vance, and Secretary of State Marco Rubio. Lasting just one hour, the meeting ended without resolution, though both sides agreed to form a working group for further dialogue. Trump has linked Greenland to his proposed Golden Dome missile defense system, posting on Truth Social that NATO would be far stronger under US control of the island and dismissing Denmark's ability to defend it against powers like Russia or China.

France is not acting alone. Germany has dispatched a 13-member reconnaissance team, while Sweden, Norway, the Netherlands, and Canada have pledged contributions to the Danish-led exercise. Macron announced the French involvement on X, emphasizing solidarity with Copenhagen and Nuuk. Officials note that the deployed troops specialize in cold and mountainous environments, framing the operation as a coordinated European response to Trump's rhetoric that the US will acquire Greenland "one way or another."

Macron warned of unprecedented cascading consequences if an ally's sovereignty is challenged, a message relayed during a cabinet meeting by government spokesperson Maud Bregeon. Greenland's Prime Minister Jens-Frederik Nielsen echoed this, declaring unequivocally that the island rejects US governance or incorporation. As NATO allies mobilize, the standoff underscores growing transatlantic frictions over Arctic strategic interests.