Finance
Canada could send small contingent of troops to Greenland, says source
Published by Global Banking and Finance Review
Posted on January 19, 2026
2 min readLast updated: January 19, 2026
Quick Summary
Canada is weighing the deployment of troops to Greenland for NATO exercises, balancing relations with European allies and the US amid geopolitical tensions.
Canada Weighs Troop Deployment to Greenland for NATO Exercises
Canada's Military Considerations
By David Ljunggren
Background on NATO Exercises
OTTAWA, Jan 19 (Reuters) - Canada is considering whether to send a small contingent of troops to Greenland to take part in NATO military exercises, a source directly familiar with the matter said on Monday.
Political Implications
The news was first reported by the CBC News and the Globe and Mail newspaper.
Response from European Countries
Military officials have presented plans for the operation to the government and are awaiting a decision from Prime Minister Mark Carney, said the source, who requested anonymity given the sensitivity of the matter.
Concerns Over U.S. Relations
Carney's office declined to comment.
U.S. President Donald Trump's threats to take Greenland pose a challenge for Carney, who is keen to show solidarity with European allies while trying to stay on the right side of Trump, who has in the past threatened to annex Canada.
"We're concerned about this escalation, to be absolutely clear... we always will support sovereignty and territorial integrity of countries, wherever their geographic location is," Carney told reporters in Doha on Sunday.
European countries sent small numbers of military personnel to Greenland last week.
Germany, France, Sweden, Norway, Finland and the Netherlands have said they are sending military staff to begin preparations for larger drills later this year.
(Reporting by David LjunggrenEditing by Bill Berkrot)
Key Takeaways
- •Canada is considering sending troops to Greenland for NATO exercises.
- •Prime Minister Mark Carney is evaluating military plans.
- •The decision impacts relations with European allies and the US.
- •European countries have already sent military personnel to Greenland.
- •The move addresses geopolitical tensions involving Greenland.
Frequently Asked Questions about Canada could send small contingent of troops to Greenland, says source
1What is troop deployment?
Troop deployment refers to the movement of military forces to a specific location for operational purposes, such as training, peacekeeping, or combat missions.
2What are military exercises?
Military exercises are training activities conducted by armed forces to practice and evaluate their operational capabilities, coordination, and readiness for various scenarios.
3What is military solidarity?
Military solidarity refers to the cooperation and mutual support among allied nations' armed forces, often demonstrated through joint exercises and shared defense commitments.
4What is the significance of troop presence in NATO?
Troop presence in NATO signifies commitment to collective defense, enhances deterrence against potential threats, and fosters stronger military cooperation among member nations.
