Canada is considering the deployment of a small group of its soldiers to Greenland for joint military exercises, aiming to demonstrate solidarity with Denmark amid concerns stemming from U.S. President Donald Trump’s controversial remarks about acquiring the island. According to two high-ranking government officials who spoke to The Globe and Mail, the Canadian Armed Forces are currently awaiting the final green light from Prime Minister Mark Carney before proceeding with the troop movement.
Interestingly, the names of these senior officials have not been disclosed, as they were not authorized to comment publicly on this sensitive issue. Should Canada move forward with sending troops, it could provoke a strong reaction from President Trump, especially since he has already threatened to impose new tariffs on several European nations that have sent military personnel to Greenland in support of Denmark.
At present, Canada has three CF-18 fighter jets along with a Cormorant helicopter stationed in Greenland as part of a North American Aerospace Defence Command (NORAD) drill alongside the United States. The officials indicated that if the Prime Minister approves the deployment, a few Canadian soldiers could potentially head to Greenland within the week to participate in military exercises organized by NATO and led by Denmark. However, the timeline for the Prime Minister’s decision remains uncertain, though it is anticipated to occur soon.
These Canadian forces would join their NATO counterparts from countries including Germany, Britain, France, Denmark, the Netherlands, Norway, Sweden, and Finland, all of which are also facing tariff threats from Trump due to their military presence in Greenland.
In a striking show of unity, thousands of Greenland residents recently marched across the icy terrain, expressing their opposition to President Trump’s claims regarding the island's future.
If approved, Canada’s involvement in these exercises aims to reaffirm NATO’s commitment to securing the Arctic region while simultaneously showing support for Denmark, the officials emphasized. Speaking at a conference in Doha, Qatar, Prime Minister Carney described Trump’s suggestion of using economic pressure to gain control of Greenland as a troubling escalation of tensions. He stated his intention to inform the President that NATO is equipped to ensure the security of the Arctic territory.
When asked whether Canada plans to join other NATO allies in enhancing military presence in Greenland, Carney did not directly respond. Trump has justified his push to make Greenland part of the U.S. by arguing that the strategically significant island and its rich resources should not come under the influence of nations like Russia or China.
Referencing Russia’s aggressive actions in Ukraine, Carney articulated Canada’s position in response to Trump’s tactics around Greenland, stating, "It’s a serious situation, and we’re concerned. This escalation is troubling."
Politicians from both major U.S. parties—Democrats and Republicans alike—have voiced criticism regarding Trump’s threats towards Greenland and his tariffs. The President argues that Denmark lacks the necessary capability to protect Greenland and its essential mineral resources from potential threats posed by Russia or China.
However, Carney firmly believes that NATO is more than capable of defending Greenland. During a recent visit to Paris, he discussed with NATO Secretary-General Mark Rutte how they can enhance security measures over the northern flank of NATO territories.
Operation Arctic Endurance, a Danish-led NATO military initiative, aims to showcase allied dedication to maintaining Denmark and Greenland's sovereignty and territorial integrity.
