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Denmark sends conscripts to Greenland as Arctic tensions grow
The drill is part of Denmark’s new conscription program and NATO’s Arctic Sentry mission as Copenhagen pledges billions for Arctic defenses.
For the first time in recent history, Danish conscripts deployed to Greenland to participate in the Arctic Endurance military exercise as part of Denmark's new extended conscription programme.
This deployment follows President Donald Trump's repeated demands to acquire Greenland, which Denmark and Greenland firmly rejected, prompting Copenhagen to pledge billions strengthening Arctic defences after years of underinvestment.
The drill aligns with Arctic Sentry, a NATO mission launched this year to strengthen alliance presence in the region. Conscript David, 19, told Reuters, "It shows presence that we're here and not just thinking of our own skin."
Company commander Captain Laura Jepsen said training focuses on Arctic terrain operations, while China and Russia have increased regional activity with Moscow criticizing NATO's growing presence as a security threat.
Conscript Anton, 22, said the deployment "sends a message that Denmark is reinforcing itself for the future," reflecting the broader program aimed at soldiers operating in challenging Arctic regions.
For the first time in recent history, Danish recruits were deployed in Greenland, while Denmark strengthens its presence in the Arctic, following threats from the US regarding the annexation of the territory,...