Pistorius: Exploring increased NATO involvement in Greenland

Berlin (dpa) - German Defence Minister Boris Pistorius suggests that NATO countries are considering increased joint protection of the Artic region around Greenland. “It involves monitoring, it involves patrols, it involves seeing what’s happening below and above water and in the air. In other words, it’s about reconnaissance and it’s about regular on-site training to demonstrate our presence”, said the SPD politician during a visit by EU Foreign Affairs Representative Kaja Kallas to Berlin. 

Pistorius also mentioned that some NATO partners are currently discussing and exploring with NATO which measures would be appropriate and what is required. 

It is however too early to talk about specific steps, the Minister replied when asked whether there are plans for a joint NATO mission to secure the Artic region. “We agree that security in the North Atlantic and Artic can only be achieved multilaterally and collectively”, said Pistorius.  

US President Donald Trump has of late repeatedly asserted US claims to Greenland – citing security requirements as justification.