Denmark Reportedly Flew Explosives and Blood Bags to Greenland Amid US Invasion Fears
According to Danish public broadcaster DR, Denmark prepared for a potential US attack on Greenland in January by flying explosives to destroy runways and blood supplies to treat casualties. This response was triggered by former US President Donald Trump's threats to acquire Greenland "the hard way," causing significant alarm in Copenhagen.
Secret Military Preparations and European Coordination
Danish soldiers were reportedly dispatched to Greenland carrying explosives intended to blow up runways in Nuuk, the capital, and Kangerlussuaq, a northern town, to prevent US aircraft from landing in case of an invasion. Additionally, supplies from Danish blood banks were transported to handle potential battlefield injuries. Sources from Danish government, authorities, and intelligence services in Denmark, France, and Germany confirmed these measures to DR.
Denmark initiated secret talks with European leaders soon after the 2024 US election to seek political support. The US attack on Venezuela on 3 January was a critical turning point, with Trump subsequently stating the US needed Greenland "very badly," renewing invasion fears. Danish Prime Minister Mette Frederiksen warned that a US attack on a NATO ally would end the alliance and post-World War II security.
Rapid Deployment of European Forces
Although there was already a plan for Danish and European forces to send soldiers to Greenland later in the year, this was accelerated due to the crisis. An advance command of Danish, French, German, Norwegian, and Swedish soldiers arrived in Greenland, followed by a main force including elite troops. Danish fighter planes and a French naval vessel were also directed toward the North Atlantic.
The strategy aimed to involve multiple nationalities to compel the US to take significant hostile action if it attempted to occupy Greenland. A Danish defence source described the situation as unprecedented since April 1940. An unnamed top French official noted that the Greenland crisis strengthened European unity, emphasizing the need for independent security.
Official Responses and Broader Implications
The Danish Ministry of Defence, along with the offices of Greenlandic Prime Minister Jens-Frederik Nielsen and Danish Prime Minister Mette Frederiksen, declined to comment on the reports. This incident underscores heightened tensions within NATO and Europe's evolving defence posture in response to US threats.
