Denmark's Military Preparations Amid US Tensions Over Greenland

In early January 2026, Denmark undertook significant military preparations in response to escalating tensions with the United States regarding Greenland, an autonomous territory within the Danish commonwealth. Following a US military operation in Venezuela and remarks from then-President Donald Trump about potentially taking Greenland “the hard way,” Denmark's government began to ready itself for a possible US invasion. Reports from Danish public broadcaster DR indicate that this included deploying soldiers to Greenland with explosives intended to destroy runways in Nuuk and Kangerlussuaq, thereby preventing US military aircraft from landing.

The GuardianThe Telegraph - UKDenmark prepared for possible US attack on Greenland

The Danish military's preparations involved not only explosives but also medical supplies, including blood reserves, to treat potential casualties in the event of conflict. This unprecedented situation prompted Denmark to seek political support from European allies, including France and Germany, in a series of secret discussions. The urgency of these preparations was underscored by a Danish defense source who remarked, “We have not been in such a situation since April 1940,” referencing the occupation of Denmark during World War II.

The Telegraph - UK

Denmark's strategy aimed to establish a multinational military presence in Greenland to complicate any potential US military actions. Troops from Denmark, France, Germany, Norway, and Sweden were reportedly deployed to the territory, with the intent of presenting a united front against any US aggression. Danish fighter jets and a French naval vessel were also dispatched to the North Atlantic as part of these preparations. The Danish government sought to deter US actions by demonstrating that an invasion would provoke a significant military response from multiple European nations.

Denmark prepared for possible US attack on GreenlandThe GuardianThe Telegraph - UK

The Danish Ministry of Defence, along with the offices of Greenlandic Prime Minister Jens-Frederik Nielsen and Danish Prime Minister Mette Frederiksen, declined to comment on the specifics of these military preparations. However, the situation has sparked discussions within Europe regarding the continent's security policy and its reliance on US military support.

The GuardianThe Telegraph - UKDenmark prepared for possible US attack on Greenland

Critics of the Danish government's response have raised concerns about the potential for escalating tensions with the US, arguing that such military preparations could provoke further conflict rather than deter it. Some analysts suggest that the focus should be on diplomatic solutions rather than military readiness.

Denmark prepared for possible US attack on Greenland

While Danish sources indicate a high level of concern regarding US intentions, there is no confirmed evidence of specific US attack plans against Greenland. The situation remains fluid, with ongoing discussions about the implications of these military preparations for European security and cooperation.

The Guardian

• “We have not been in such a situation since April 1940,” — Danish Defense Source

The Guardian

• “With the Greenland crisis, Europe realised once and for all that we need to be able to take care of our own security,” — Unnamed French Official

The Guardian

As tensions continue, the crisis has prompted a reevaluation of security policies across Europe, highlighting the need for a more robust and independent defense strategy.

Denmark prepared for possible US attack on Greenland