NATO will launch a new operation in the Arctic to reduce tensions among allies over Greenland, Colonel Martin O'Donnell reported on Tuesday, according to LETA citing DPA.
According to O'Donnell from NATO's military headquarters in Mons, Belgium, the operation will further strengthen NATO's positions in the Arctic and in high latitudes.
The announcement of the operation's start could take place as early as the end of this week or next, the DPA agency has learned.
NATO's Supreme Allied Commander in Europe, General Alexis Greenkevich, may propose conducting such an 'enhanced vigilance' operation even without an official decision from NATO allies.
Sources within NATO reported that the operation primarily plans for additional patrols involving ships and aircraft, as well as exercises to enhance NATO's presence in the Arctic.
Tensions between NATO countries increased following U.S. President Donald Trump's threats to seize Denmark's autonomous territory — Greenland. Last month, Trump backed away from his threats to forcibly take Greenland, allowing U.S. allies to breathe a sigh of relief.
In September, NATO began Operation 'Eastern Guardian' in response to incursions by Russian fighters and drones into the airspace of NATO countries. This operation primarily mobilized additional surveillance and air defense forces.
The new operation has been named 'Arctic Guardian'.
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