Media: NATO eyes expanded US military footprint in Greenland to settle island’s future

NATO plans to offer US President Donald Trump the opportunity to significantly expand the US military presence in Greenland, with the aim of resolving ongoing discussions about the island's status.

"In NATO’s plans, we are offering the US President the possibility of expanding the military presence of the alliance in the Arctic," the report by the DPA agency stated, per Caliber.Az.

The expansion would address the long-running debate about Greenland’s future. Earlier, US Secretary of State Marco Rubio had suggested that the US should take control of Greenland to prevent China from gaining a foothold in the Arctic. Rubio commented, "The United States should take Greenland under control, as China could use it to its advantage in expanding its presence in the Arctic."

Greenland is of strategic importance due to its natural resources and role as a military base in the Arctic. Additionally, with climate change making shipping lanes more accessible in the summer, Greenland’s position becomes even more critical.

On 25 January, the Financial Times reported that a phone conversation between President Trump and Danish Prime Minister Mette Frederiksen did not go well. During the call, Trump reiterated his interest in Greenland, despite Denmark's refusal to sell or cede control of the island. The newspaper claimed that Trump "insisted he was serious about acquiring Greenland, despite Denmark’s rejection."

A majority of Greenlanders have voiced opposition to joining the United States, and Denmark is increasing its defence spending to counter US pressure. Denmark's foreign and defence ministers have publicly rejected the possibility of Greenland being transferred to US control.

Currently, the US operates the Pituffik space base in Greenland, which supports missile warning systems, missile defence, and space surveillance. Danish military forces also maintain a presence on the island.

By Tamilla Hasanova