France requests NATO military exercises in Greenland amid growing tensions with the US over Trump’s territorial claims.
NATO Exercises in Greenland?
The Greenland issue is causing growing tensions in relations between Paris and Washington. The Élysée Palace announced in a statement that France is requesting NATO military exercises in Greenland and is ready to contribute. The statement appeared just hours after Donald Trump confirmed at a press conference his plans to take over this territory.
French Troops Deployed
Last week, France sent about fifteen military personnel from the mountain units Chasseurs Alpins to the island to participate in an international reconnaissance mission – without the participation of Americans. This angered the White House, especially since the French president announced the deployment of additional land, air, and sea forces to Greenland. However, according to “L’Express,” Paris is not planning such an operation for now.
Trump on Greenland: “Please Give Me a Piece of Ice”
Meanwhile, Washington is putting pressure on France, including threatening to impose high tariffs on French wines. On Tuesday (January 20) in Davos, Emmanuel Macron condemned Donald Trump’s threats and accused him of seeking to subordinate Europe.
In turn, on Wednesday (January 21) during a speech in Davos, the American president again returned to the Greenland topic. He said that “The United States wants Greenland, which they already had as a trustee.” – “I just want Greenland, including the ownership title, which is needed to defend the place” – he said. – “If there is a war, many operations will be conducted on this land. Missiles will fly over this ice” – said the politician.
He emphasized that the US needs it to deter enemies and build a golden dome there. – “Please give me a piece of ice, placed in a location that can play a key role in world peace and world protection. This is little compared to what we gave for decades” – he emphasized. He added, “I incredibly respect the inhabitants of Greenland and Denmark, but all NATO allies are obliged to maintain the ability to defend their territory, and no country besides the US is able to secure Greenland.”