Denmark Sends 100 Conscripts to Greenland Amid Geopolitical Tensions

The Danish armed forces are sending more than 100 conscripts to Greenland for the first time, amid rising geopolitical tensions and statements by US President Donald Trump expressing a desire to make the island part of the United States. The step was taken as Denmark expands its conscription programme, which now also includes women. Previously, the Danish government and Greenlandic authorities had warned the US against attempting to take over the island and stressed the importance of respecting their territorial integrity. The Danish Armed Forces stated that around 1,600 young people have begun conscription, with the service period extended to 11 months from the previous four months. Legislation requiring women to perform military service under the same conditions as men has been in force in Denmark since July 2025. Meanwhile, newspaper BT reported that 19-year-old Princess Isabella began her military education on Monday by joining the Danish Guard Hussar Regiment. According to Reuters, the extension of conscription in Denmark is also linked to the situation in Ukraine and alleged threats stemming from Russia’s actions. Over the past few years, Moscow has repeatedly expressed concern over increased NATO activity near Russia’s western borders. The Russian government has insisted that it does not threaten any party, but will not ignore actions it deems harmful to its national interests.