Finland to send 2 liaison officers to Greenland

Finland will send two liaison officers to Greenland to familiarise themselves with training activities, said the Ministry of Defence in a press release on Thursday.

Finland took the decision following a request from Denmark as the government of Greenland and the Danish Ministry of Defence decided to continue training programme of Danish Defence Forces in Greenland in close cooperation with NATO allies.

Several European countries, including Sweden, Norway, Germany, France, Germany and the United Kingdom announced to send soldiers to Greenland.

“We have promoted this objective within NATO in various contexts ever since we joined the Alliance. It strengthens Finland’s security when our allies build up their ability to operate in the Arctic,” Defence Minister Antti Häkkänen said in the press release.

"Finland is an active contributor to Arctic defence. Although we normally operate in the European Arctic, we have also taken part in NATO’s peacetime activities in Iceland and the North Sea. Despite having no experience of operating in Greenland, we are familiar with its operating environment and its demanding conditions," the Minister added.

Denmark's request to Finland was made public on Wednesday by Foreign Minister Elina Valtonen, who said at the time that Finland was still considering its response, reported Xinhua.

Earlier on Wednesday, the Danish Ministry of Defense confirmed that Denmark is increasing its military presence in Greenland, including additional capabilities such as ships, aircraft and soldiers.

Greenland, the world's largest island, is a self-governing territory within the Kingdom of Denmark, while Copenhagen retains authority over defense and foreign policy. The United States maintains a military base on the island.

Since returning to office in 2025, US President Donald Trump has repeatedly expressed a desire to "obtain" Greenland and has not ruled out the use of force.