COPENHAGEN – Danish forces reportedly planned to destroy critical airport runways in Greenland in case US President Donald Trump attempted to seize the Arctic island, according to Denmark’s public broadcaster, DR.
The report, based on multiple sources within Denmark’s government and military as well as European allies, said emergency blood supplies were brought in to treat potential casualties. Two European officials later confirmed the report to the Financial Times. The Danish defence ministry declined to comment.
Only a small number of military personnel were aware of the operation due to strict security measures, an anonymous senior Danish official told the BBC.
Denmark’s Response to the Threat
Denmark’s preparations were driven by concerns over sovereignty and Greenland’s strategic importance. The semi-autonomous island is vital for Arctic defense and control over North Atlantic routes.
- Protecting Sovereignty: With repeated US claims to Greenland, Denmark wanted to ensure it could respond decisively to any attempt to seize the territory.
- European Support: Denmark coordinated with France, Germany, Norway, and Sweden to demonstrate European solidarity and reinforce joint military presence.
- Strategic Location: Greenland hosts key airports and monitoring stations critical for Arctic security.
Timeline: Preparations began in early January 2026, shortly after US forces captured Venezuelan President Nicolás Maduro on January 3. Danish and European troops were deployed to Nuuk and Kangerlussuaq immediately afterward.
US Interest in Greenland
Trump has repeatedly expressed interest in acquiring Greenland, calling it strategically crucial. The island is believed to offer military advantages, access to natural resources, and increased geopolitical influence in the Arctic.
- Military Access: Greenland allows monitoring of Russian and Chinese activity in the Arctic region.
- Resources: The island holds minerals vital for defense and technology industries.
- Geopolitics: Annexation would extend US influence in a region with growing international competition.
Timeline: Trump publicly discussed Greenland in early January 2026, but by January 21, he stated at the Davos World Economic Forum that he did not want to use force and preferred negotiations.
What Comes Next
- For Denmark: Troops continue to participate in joint exercises in Greenland, prepared for any scenario. The plan to destroy runways was intended to raise the cost of a potential US invasion.
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For the US: Officials appear to favor diplomacy over military action. Negotiations may continue to secure strategic agreements without annexation.
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https://thereporter24.com/news/denmark-prepared-to-destroy-greenland-runways-over-us-invasion-fears
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