Brussels, January 17, 2026 – The Europe Today: Belgium will join the international reconnaissance mission in Greenland starting Monday by deploying one officer to the Arctic, announced on Friday by Defense Minister Theo Francken and Foreign Minister Maxime Prévot.
Belgium follows the lead of several European nations, including France, Germany, and the Netherlands, which recently announced plans to send military personnel to Greenland. The move comes in response to statements by U.S. President Donald Trump, who expressed interest in annexing Greenland. Participating countries hope that the reconnaissance mission will encourage the U.S. to abandon such plans.
The mission, conducted under Danish command, is part of broader NATO efforts to enhance military presence and training opportunities in the strategically vital Arctic region. Its objectives include identifying locations for future military exercises and assessing possibilities for an increased military presence for deterrence and defense. Based on findings from this reconnaissance, NATO will hold further consultations on specific training and exercise activities in the region.
Minister Francken said, “Security in the Arctic region is of strategic importance to the entire alliance. By participating in this reconnaissance mission, we are demonstrating our commitment within NATO and contributing to the collective efforts to secure this strategically important region.”
Foreign Minister Prévot underscored the mission’s importance, stating, “This reconnaissance mission is fully in line with our efforts to strengthen international cooperation. The Arctic region requires a joint approach by all allies. Belgium is happy to take its responsibility in this regard.”
Both ministers indicated that any further Belgian involvement, including potential participation in a follow-up Arctic Sentry operation, will be decided later in close consultation among government partners.
