Denmark drew up contingency plans to disable key infrastructure in Greenland earlier this year amid concerns that the United States could attempt to assert control over the Arctic territory, according to reports citing government and military sources. The preparations reportedly included plans to destroy airport runways to prevent aircraft landings, as well as the deployment of additional troops and medical supplies to the island. Get today's headlines by email According to Denmark’s public broadcaster DR, a limited number of Danish personnel were aware of the plans due to their sensitive nature. Soldiers sent to Greenland were said to be prepared to render runways in Nuuk and Kangerlussuaq unusable if necessary. Contingency plans and military deploymentMedical provisions, including blood supplies, were also transported in anticipation of potential casualties in the event of conflict. The Danish defence ministry declined to comment on the reports. A senior military official, speaking anonymously, said knowledge of the operation was tightly restricted for security reasons. The deployments were presented publicly as part of joint military exercises involving Denmark and several European allies. However, sources indicated that the underlying purpose was to prepare for a possible escalation involving the United States. Rising tensions over GreenlandTensions were fuelled by repeated statements from US President Donald Trump expressing interest in acquiring Greenland, a semi-autonomous territory under Danish sovereignty. Concerns intensified following a separate US military operation in Venezuela in early January, which some European officials viewed as raising the likelihood of further unilateral actions. In response, Denmark is said to have sought political backing from allies including France and Germany, as well as Nordic partners, to demonstrate unity and deter any potential move. One defence source cited in the reports said the aim was to increase the cost of any intervention, ensuring that any attempt to seize Greenland would require a significant and overt use of force. Strategic importance of the Arctic territoryGreenland’s location makes it a key strategic asset, positioned between North America and Europe and close to important Arctic shipping routes. The island is also believed to hold significant natural resources. The United States already maintains a military presence in Greenland, but both Danish and Greenlandic leaders have consistently rejected any proposal to transfer control of the territory. Despite earlier rhetoric, President Trump later signalled he preferred negotiations and said he did not intend to use military force to resolve the issue. Concerns ease but questions remainWhile immediate fears of confrontation appear to have subsided, the episode has highlighted underlying tensions between allies. European coordination during the period was seen as an effort to reinforce collective security and deter escalation. However, officials suggest the situation has left lingering uncertainty about future developments. Danish authorities have reiterated their commitment to Greenland’s sovereignty, while continuing to work within the NATO alliance framework. Join the discussion? Already a member? Adapted by ASEAN Now. Source 20 March 2026
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