The United Kingdom is actively collaborating with its NATO allies to enhance security in the Arctic region, with plans potentially involving the deployment of British soldiers, warships, and aircraft to Greenland. This strategic move unfolds against a backdrop of renewed claims from former US President Donald Trump, who has persistently expressed a desire to gain control over the semi-autonomous Danish territory.
NATO's Arctic Strategy and the UK's Role
According to reports from January 2026, British military chiefs are drafting plans for a possible NATO mission focused on Greenland. Transport Secretary Heidi Alexander framed these discussions as part of the alliance's routine efforts to secure the 'High North' against the growing influence of Russia and China, rather than a direct response to US posturing. She emphasised that while the Arctic has not seen conflict akin to Ukraine, it is "really important" to establish an effective deterrent in the region.
Alexander concurred with the assessment that the Arctic Circle is "becoming an increasingly contested part of the world," specifically citing the ambitions of Russian President Vladimir Putin and China. The UK's potential involvement signifies a commitment to collective defence through NATO, aiming to ensure stability in this strategically vital and resource-rich area.
Trump's Persistent Ambitions and Political Reactions
The geopolitical context is sharply defined by the stance of former President Donald Trump. He has publicly insisted on acquiring control over Greenland, citing its strategic location and natural resources. In a characteristically blunt statement, he warned, "if we don't do it the easy way, we're going to do it the hard way," leaving open the possibility of using military force against a NATO ally.
However, this threat has been downplayed by some seasoned UK figures. Former UK ambassador to the US, Lord Peter Mandelson, stated he did not believe Trump would militarily assault a NATO ally, calling the idea foolish. Mandelson predicted extended negotiations, concluding that the United States would ultimately lead efforts to secure the Arctic against Russian and Chinese expansion.
Liberal Democrats leader Sir Ed Davey offered conditional support for the UK's military planning. He suggested the UK should offer troops for a joint NATO operation under Danish and UK command, arguing that if Trump was serious about security, he would participate and drop his "outrageous threats," which risk tearing the NATO alliance apart and benefiting Putin.
The Broader Implications for Arctic Security
The potential deployment of UK forces to Greenland underscores a significant shift in Arctic geopolitics. The region is no longer a peripheral zone of cooperation but a central theatre for great power competition. The UK's proactive stance aims to reinforce NATO's northern flank and demonstrate a unified allied front capable of addressing challenges from both state rivals and internal discord.
This development highlights the complex interplay between alliance solidarity and the disruptive policies of a key member. The UK's manoeuvre can be interpreted as a dual-purpose strategy: to contribute to a credible Arctic security deterrent against Moscow and Beijing, while simultaneously presenting a NATO-led alternative to Trump's unilateral acquisition plans, thereby aiming to preserve alliance cohesion.
