Estonia will join the planning of the joint Arctic Endurance exercises in Greenland, initiated by Denmark, and is ready to participate in their conduct.
According to Estonia’s Prime Minister Kristen Mihal during a press conference, the country sees an active contribution in the planning stages and possible participation in the exercises themselves.
The Estonian Defence Forces will participate in planning the Arctic Endurance exercises
– Prime Minister Kristen Mihal
The head of government noted that participation in the exercises could be realized if it would help resolve the situation and Denmark submits a corresponding request.
Earlier, the head of government openly spoke about the possibility of sending Estonian service members to Greenland.
He stressed that the question of Greenland’s belonging has a value-based character and hopes that a NATO framework approach will be the solution.
In addition to Denmark, Sweden, Norway, France and Germany have also announced sending their units to Greenland.
As known from previous reports, the United States, Denmark and Greenland are forming a high-level working group to discuss further steps in relations with Greenland.
On January 14 in Washington, there was a meeting between Greenland’s Foreign Minister Vivian Motzfeldt and Denmark’s Lars Løkke Rasmussen with U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio and Vice President J. D. Vens. The meeting was initiated by Copenhagen after Trump voiced threats regarding Greenland.
As expected, these steps indicate growing interest in the region and the potential to strengthen joint defense efforts among partners in Northern Europe and NATO.
Prospects and Future Steps
In the near term, the parties plan to continue consultations on the format of participation and preparation to ensure security and stability in the region.