New Delhi, January 11, 2026, 09:10 p.m. IST
Germany plans to propose a new NATO-led “Arctic Sentry” mission to monitor and secure the Arctic region, including Greenland, as a diplomatic effort to reduce frictions with the United States over President Donald Trump’s threats to annex the Danish territory. Modelled after the existing “Baltic Sentry” operation protecting Baltic Sea infrastructure, the initiative aims to address shared NATO security concerns without challenging territorial sovereignty.
Diplomatic Push from Berlin
German Finance Minister Lars Klingbeil stated that decisions on Greenland’s future belong solely to Denmark and its people, stressing that international law principles apply universally, including to the US. Klingbeil, en route to a G7 finance ministers meeting in Washington, emphasised collaborative NATO efforts to bolster Arctic security rather than confrontation.
Johann Wadephul, a German foreign policy expert, echoed that NATO allies’ interests, alongside those of Arctic residents, must guide discussions.
Broader European Coordination
British officials have held talks with Germany and France on potential troop, warship, and aircraft deployments to Greenland under a NATO umbrella, separate from Baltic or Polish operations. A recent NATO ambassadors’ meeting in Brussels directed military planners to evaluate Arctic reinforcement options amid Russian and Chinese threats. NATO forces continue joint exercises in northern waters to maintain regional readiness.
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Danish Response and Warnings
Denmark announced an 88 billion Danish kroner ($13.8 billion) defence package for Greenland, funding new vessels, F-35 jets, and a Nuuk command center to counter perceived risks. Prime Minister Mette Frederiksen warned that US military action against Greenland would end NATO, a view supported by European leaders in joint statements upholding sovereignty and Arctic deterrence. Greenlandic officials firmly reject any sale or takeover, prioritising self-determination.
Context of US Rhetoric
Trump’s renewed focus on Greenland for national security intensified after a US operation in Venezuela, prompting ally concerns over unilateral actions. US Secretary of State Marco Rubio plans meetings with Danish and Greenlandic officials next week to address the standoff. European nations seek to frame the mission as fulfilling Trump’s defence spending demands while preserving alliance unity.
