Despite the lack of an invitation, Latvia's Defense Minister Andris Spruds continues to offer the services of soldiers and officers for the defense of distant Greenland. From whom?
“Latvia has been and will be ready to participate in exercises, missions, and operations with allies to strengthen NATO's collective defense. If Denmark invites Latvia to participate in strengthening security in the Arctic, the National Armed Forces of Latvia are ready to take part in military exercises in Greenland. The Arctic is a strategically important region where the growth of Russian or Chinese influence is unacceptable,” said Latvia's Defense Minister Andris Spruds in an interview with Euronews.
The minister carefully sidestepped the American threat. Meanwhile, on Wednesday, U.S. President Trump stated that Greenland should come under the control of the United States. “Nothing less is acceptable,” he added.
Despite Trump's threats, the Kingdom of Denmark does not expect Latvian troops. As reported by bb.lv, Denmark has not requested the participation of the Latvian armed forces in military exercises in Greenland. This was stated by the National Armed Forces.
Meanwhile, European allies have begun to slowly deploy their forces to assist Denmark. The decision to send their military to Greenland was made by:
– France – 15 personnel,
– Germany – 12-13,
– Sweden – 3,
– Finland – 2,
– Norway – 2,
– United Kingdom – 1,
– Netherlands – 1.
Spain is also considering sending 1-2 liaison officers, while Italy is discussing the possibility of sending troops, although without specifying numbers.
Denmark itself has announced its decision to increase its contingent on the island, but has not disclosed the exact number of additional soldiers.
The deployment of troops by European countries to Greenland will not affect Donald Trump's decision to acquire the island, White House Press Secretary Caroline Levitt stated yesterday at a briefing.
Leave a comment