Prime Minister Mark Carney is contemplating deploying troops to Greenland for joint military exercises with NATO allies amid U.S. President Donald Trump’s threats of imposing tariffs on European countries unless they agree to his proposal to buy and control the semi-autonomous island.
According to two senior Canadian officials who spoke to CBC News, contingency plans were prepared and presented to the federal government last week. While a Royal Canadian Air Force unit is currently engaged in a scheduled NORAD exercise in Greenland, the prime minister is evaluating the possibility of sending additional forces for sovereignty exercises planned by the Danes. These exercises may involve drills to safeguard the vital infrastructure of the Arctic territory.
Both sources expressed uncertainty about the government’s stance due to the political repercussions of Canada’s involvement and potential backlash from the Trump administration. The sources, who requested anonymity, emphasized that the Canadian soldiers could swiftly be dispatched to Greenland if required.
The potential deployment was initially disclosed by the Globe and Mail. Although the countries involved are NATO members, participating in the Danish exercises would operate outside the alliance’s framework, akin to the voluntary coalition efforts to support Ukraine.
Trump reiterated his desire for the U.S. to purchase and oversee Greenland over the weekend, alleging that China and Russia also covet the island. He warned of a 10% tariff on eight European nations opposing the idea, with the tariff escalating to 25% on June 1 if an agreement to purchase Greenland is not reached.
The European countries, including Denmark, Norway, Sweden, France, Germany, the UK, the Netherlands, and Finland, have rallied behind Denmark, cautioning that a U.S. military takeover of a NATO territory could jeopardize the alliance led by Washington.
In a joint statement released on Sunday, the eight European nations affirmed their solidarity with Greenland’s people and emphasized their commitment to dialogue based on principles of sovereignty and territorial integrity. They criticized the tariff threats as detrimental to transatlantic relations and potentially leading to further tensions.
Denmark had previously announced plans to bolster its military presence in Greenland alongside NATO allies. Prime Minister Carney expressed concern over Trump’s tariff ultimatum in a press conference in Doha, Qatar, underscoring Canada’s support for the sovereignty and territorial integrity of nations.
Gen. Jennie Carignan, chief of the defence staff, highlighted discussions within NATO prompted by Trump’s interest in Greenland’s control. When asked about potential Canadian military contributions, Carignan emphasized close collaboration with Danish partners and shared interest in enhancing Arctic security from a NATO perspective.