Overview
- France, Germany, Sweden and Norway began a three‑day reconnaissance under Denmark’s Arctic Endurance exercise, with modest detachments focused on cold‑weather operations and maritime surveillance.
- Initial forces include about 15 French alpine troops already in Nuuk and a 13‑person German reconnaissance team, with Norway sending two personnel and Sweden adding a small contingent not yet detailed.
- The Netherlands said it will contribute a naval officer, and Denmark is reinforcing its own presence while coordinating with NATO on increased allied activity in the High North.
- The White House said the European deployments do not affect President Trump’s objective to acquire Greenland, which he linked to a planned missile‑defense “Golden Dome,” as Moscow voiced serious concern over accelerated militarization.
- President Emmanuel Macron said more French elements will follow and France plans to open a consulate in Greenland on February 6 to deepen its political footprint.