German Chancellor Olaf Scholz announced Sunday his proposal for NATO allies to enhance their military presence in Greenland, countering US President Donald Trump’s suggestion to acquire the territory for security purposes. Scholz reaffirmed Germany’s support for Denmark in its dispute with Washington, stating that “borders must not be moved by force,” emphasizing the importance of European unity on the matter.
Speaking during a televised debate with his conservative challenger Friedrich Merz ahead of the Feb. 23 parliamentary elections, Scholz confirmed reports about Germany’s push for a stronger NATO presence in Greenland. He explained that increased military deployments would address concerns about the region’s security, which has been reshaped by climate change and melting ice. While avoiding direct confrontation with Trump, Scholz highlighted the necessity of maintaining strong transatlantic relations, recalling the US role in Germany’s post-war reconstruction.
With elections approaching, polls show Scholz’s Social Democratic Party (SPD) in third place with 16% voter support, trailing Merz’s Christian Democrats (CDU/CSU) at 29%. Analysts suggest that a coalition between the two major parties remains the most probable outcome after the elections, despite their political rivalry.
