France considers troop deployment to Greenland amid US interest

ISTANBUL

France is considering deploying troops to Greenland in response to US President Donald Trump’s controversial remarks about acquiring the Arctic island, French Foreign Minister Jean-Noel Barrot said Tuesday.

Barrot confirmed that France discussed the issue with Denmark but stressed there are no immediate plans for action.

“At this point, it is not Denmark’s wish,” Barrot said in an interview with Sud Radio, adding that Europe would act if security interests were threatened.

The comments come as Denmark seeks European support to counter Trump’s growing interest in Greenland. Trump has cited the island’s natural resources and strategic value, stating, “I think we’re going to have it.”

Danish Prime Minister Mette Frederiksen has been meeting with European leaders to discuss the matter and dismissed any immediate military threats to Greenland. She emphasized the importance of transatlantic cooperation.

Barrot described the Arctic region as “a new field of conflict,” and Frederiksen signaled a cautious approach, avoiding an escalation of tensions.

Denmark recently announced a €2 billion investment in Arctic defense.