The United States is preparing to deploy military aircraft to a key base in Greenland, according to the US military, at a time when political tensions are rising due to President Donald Trump’s renewed push to acquire the Arctic territory. The move has drawn attention because it comes alongside strong reactions from European leaders and fresh diplomatic pressure on Denmark and its allies.

The aircraft “will soon arrive” at the Pituffik Space Base in Greenland, the North American Aerospace Defence Command (NORAD) said. According to the command, the deployment is part of long-planned regional defence operations and is not a sudden or uncoordinated action. NORAD explained that the aircraft will operate as part of broader defence activities already planned for the region.

“Along with aircraft operating from bases in the continental United States and Canada, they will support various long-planned NORAD activities,” the command said in a post on X. It also highlighted what it described as “enduring defence cooperation” with Canada and Denmark.

NORAD stressed that the deployment was coordinated with Denmark and that Greenland’s government had been informed in advance. The military did not specify the exact date when the aircraft would arrive, but the timing has attracted attention as President Trump increases pressure on European allies over Greenland.

The issue of Greenland has once again become politically sensitive after Trump openly linked trade measures to the possibility of acquiring the island. He has threatened sweeping tariffs on several European countries unless the United States is allowed to buy Greenland. According to his statement, the tariffs would start at 10 per cent on February 1 and rise to 25 per cent by June.

The countries named in Trump’s tariff threats include Denmark, Norway, Sweden, France, Germany, the United Kingdom, the Netherlands and Finland. The US president has said these measures would remain in place until a deal is reached. His remarks have caused strong reactions across Europe and raised concerns about diplomatic relations between the United States and its European partners.

Responding to Trump’s comments, Roberta Metsola, President of the European Parliament, made Europe’s position clear. Speaking on Monday, she said Greenland “is not for sale.” Her statement was a direct response to the idea of the United States acquiring the territory.

“Europe supports Denmark and the people of Greenland. We do so united in our resolve,” Metsola said. She added that Greenland’s sovereignty and territorial integrity “need to be respected.” Emphasising the firmness of Europe’s stance, she said, “That fact will not change.”

At the same time, Metsola signalled that the European Union remains open to dialogue. “Europe will always be open to continue to discuss in a spirit of mutual respect,” she said, underlining the EU’s willingness to keep diplomatic channels open despite the tensions.

Denmark has also taken steps to strengthen security in Greenland. According to Danish authorities, a large number of additional troops have been moved to the island to reinforce its defence. This move reflects growing concern about security in the Arctic region and the strategic importance of Greenland.

In parallel, Denmark has proposed a new role for NATO in the region. Danish Defence Minister Troels Lund Poulsen said on Monday that Denmark has suggested that NATO launch surveillance operations in Greenland. He made the remarks after talks with NATO Secretary-General Mark Rutte.

“We underlined the importance of NATO also having a greater focus on security in the far north and the Arctic in general,” Poulsen said. He explained that the proposal has the backing of Greenland’s authorities and is part of broader discussions about regional security.

While details of the proposed NATO surveillance operation have not yet been finalised, Poulsen said discussions have reached a more advanced stage. According to him, the talks are now at a point where a practical framework can begin to take shape. This would allow the plan to move towards implementation, with NATO partners and Greenland involved in the process.

Despite the heightened rhetoric and military movements, not all European leaders believe the situation will escalate into direct conflict. Finland’s President Alexander Stubb addressed the issue on Monday and dismissed fears that the United States would use force to take control of Greenland. His comments were aimed at calming concerns about possible military action linked to Trump’s statements.

Overall, the planned deployment of US aircraft to the Pituffik Space Base has been presented by NORAD as a routine part of long-standing defence cooperation in the region. However, the broader political context, including tariff threats and strong responses from European leaders, has given the move added significance. As discussions continue between the United States, Denmark, Greenland and NATO, the situation highlights the growing strategic and political importance of the Arctic region.