A UK government official has not ruled out the possibility of deploying British forces to Greenland in response to escalating threats from Donald Trump.
Pressure mounts on Keir Starmer to commit troops to the region as part of a NATO effort to address increasing aggression from Russia and China in the High North. Amid indications from the US President about potential plans to occupy the Danish territory for national security reasons, the UK has expressed opposition to such actions.
Reports suggest that preparations are underway for a NATO mission to safeguard Greenland. Transport Secretary Heidi Alexander emphasized the heightened strategic importance of the region, stating, “It is expected that we engage with our NATO partners to deter Russian aggression in the Arctic Circle.”
While downplaying military intervention reports as premature, Alexander did not dismiss the option. She highlighted the UK’s existing involvement in the area, noting, “We are actively participating in the Joint Expeditionary Force, a coalition of ten nations emphasizing defense and deterrence in the Arctic Circle and high seas.”
Trump has floated the idea of the US purchasing Greenland and issued a veiled threat last week, stating, “If the easy route is not viable, we will pursue the difficult path.” Denmark cautioned that an invasion would strain the NATO alliance, prompting European leaders, including Starmer, to urge Trump to abandon the notion.
Recently, calls emerged for the UK Prime Minister to offer British troops to safeguard Greenland from potential Russian encroachment. Liberal Democrat leader Sir Ed Davey proposed, “The UK should extend support by sending troops to Greenland as part of a joint NATO operation under Danish and UK leadership.
“If Trump is genuinely concerned about security, he should agree to participate without resorting to aggressive threats. Disrupting the NATO alliance would only serve Putin’s interests.”
The UK’s National Security Strategy identified the region as a key area for strategic competition due to the involvement of major powers like Russia and China. NATO discussions on bolstering security in the region continue, with the UK collaborating closely with its allies.
In the past year, UK Commandos engaged in Exercise Joint Viking in Norway, a significant High North drill under NATO in freezing conditions.
Additionally, 1,500 Royal Marines are set to participate in Exercise Cold Response in Norway, Finland, and Sweden this year, training alongside allies to defend critical territories.