German Reservists' Leader Advocates European Military Presence in Greenland Amid U.S. Interest
Patrick Sensburg, head of the German Armed Forces Reservists Association, calls for European troops in Greenland to counter U.S. acquisition efforts.
Patrick Sensburg, president of the German Armed Forces Reservists Association, has urged the deployment of European troops, including German forces, to Greenland. This recommendation aims to prevent potential U.S. efforts to acquire the Arctic territory, which is a self-governing part of the Kingdom of Denmark.
Sensburg's call comes in response to U.S. President Donald Trump's recent statements expressing a desire for the United States to take control of Greenland, citing national security concerns. Trump has suggested that Greenland is "covered with Chinese and Russian ships all over the place" and emphasized the strategic importance of the island.
In a joint press conference, Greenland's Prime Minister Jens-Frederik Nielsen reaffirmed the territory's commitment to Denmark, NATO, and the European Union, rejecting any notion of U.S. ownership or governance. Nielsen stated, "We choose Denmark... We choose NATO... We choose the EU."
European leaders have expressed support for Denmark and Greenland, emphasizing that the future of Greenland should be determined by its people. A joint statement from leaders of France, Germany, Britain, and other nations urged the U.S. to respect Greenland's sovereignty, highlighting Arctic security as a top priority for NATO.
Sensburg emphasized the need for a stronger European presence in Greenland to counter U.S. ambitions, suggesting the deployment of two European brigades under Danish command. He also noted that such a deployment would provide opportunities for training and education, thereby strengthening European unity.