Denmark expects long-term NATO presence in Arctic after US deal

Denmark is confident that NATO will maintain a heightened presence in Greenland and the broader Arctic region over the long term following a security agreement with the United States signed last week, according to Danish Defence Minister Jeppe Bruus. Copenhagen hopes NATO's Arctic Sentry mission, launched earlier this year to boost exercises and patrols, will continue beyond this year and next to become permanent.

Bruus stated that "so far we are pretty positive that the increased military presence in Greenland — but also in the Arctic — will continue." The deal, signed by U.S. President Donald Trump and the leaders of Denmark and Greenland at the United Nations last week, foresees the U.S. adding two more bases beyond its existing one on the semi-autonomous Danish Arctic territory. It also envisages a greater role for NATO.

Bruus highlighted the importance of this role as melting ice caused by climate change opens up shipping routes in the Arctic. "The build-up of interest in the Arctic, also from Russia, from China et cetera, demands that NATO has a greater presence in the High North," he said.