Denmark deploys troops to Greenland in historic first as Trump threats escalate

Denmark has deployed troops to Greenland, the semi-autonomous territory in the Arctic, for the first time in modern history to establish the kingdom’s military presence on the island as the United States (U.S.) President Donald Trump pushes to acquire the territory.

Trump has repeatedly pushed to acquire the island, citing the territory’s strategic importance. He said that the U.S. needs Greenland for national security to block potential threats from China and Russia.

Greenland and Denmark have rejected Trump’s demands with Copenhagen pledging billions of dollars to strengthen its defences on the island.

The newly deployed conscripts are part of Denmark's first cohort under an extended military conscription programme. They are being trained to operate in Greenland's harsh Arctic environment, including combat and survival in extreme cold.

The troops are currently taking part in “Arctic Endurance,” a Danish military exercise designed to prepare soldiers for the difficult terrain and climate north of the Arctic Circle.

“It shows that we’re here and not just thinking of our own skin. And also thinking of the people in Greenland,” 19-year-old conscript David told Reuters.

The war games are part of the North Atlantic Treaty Organisation’s (NATO) Arctic Sentry mission, launched this year after Trump highlighted the lack of defences. The alliance is increasing its military presence in the region to counter any potential threats.

Denmark's move comes as the Arctic becomes increasingly important because of its strategic location, natural resources and emerging routes.

Russia, which maintains the largest military presence in the Arctic, has criticised NATO's growing activity in the region and called it a direct security threat.

China has also increased its involvement in the resource-rich Arctic, largely through cooperation with Russia.