Denmark conducts substantial military drill in Greenland, excluding U.S. participation
In the chilly landscapes of Greenland, a significant military exercise named Arctic Light 2025 is underway. This exercise, which runs from the 9th to the 19th of September, is a collaborative effort between Denmark, France, Germany, Sweden, and Norway.
Denmark, the host nation, is deploying a frigate, helicopters, and F-16 fighter jets for the exercise. The country has also ramped up defence investment and military activity in Greenland, a semi-autonomous territory, in response to increasing geopolitical interest in the region.
The exercise is part of a broader effort by NATO allies to strengthen defence cooperation in the Arctic. This heightened focus comes amidst U.S. interest in Greenland, an island known for its strategic location and abundant natural resources.
France, a key participant, has contributed a naval vessel, an air refuelling tanker aircraft, and a drone unit to the exercise. The purpose of Arctic Light 2025 is to prepare for potential scenarios involving increased Russian and Chinese activity in the Arctic, according to Danish Defence Minister Trine Andersen.
Interestingly, the U.S. military is not participating in Arctic Light 2025, the largest military exercise in Greenland's modern history. Despite this, the U.S. embassy spokesperson has welcomed the efforts of NATO allies to ensure preparedness to defend in the Arctic.
Ties between Copenhagen and Washington have been strained this year due to U.S. President Donald Trump's comments about acquiring Greenland by force. Last month, Denmark summoned the top U.S. diplomat in Copenhagen over reports alleging covert influence operations by U.S. citizens in Greenland.
However, the U.S. continues its robust military cooperation with Denmark and other Arctic allies. The U.S. currently has a permanent presence only at the Pituffik Space Base in northwestern Greenland. U.S. Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth was invited to Arctic Light 2025, but no U.S. military units were asked to participate.
Independent military analyst Hans Peter Michaelsen stated that Arctic Light 2025 has a strong political signalling to demonstrate Denmark's stewardship of Greenland with NATO allies. The exercise is also designed to show the Americans that Denmark looks after Greenland and does so with the help of other major NATO countries.
In conclusion, Arctic Light 2025 is a significant military exercise that underscores the importance of the Arctic region in geopolitical terms. It serves as a testament to the solidarity and cooperation among NATO allies, while also highlighting the complex geopolitical dynamics at play in Greenland.
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