The Digester

Denmark flew explosives and blood to Greenland amid fear of US seizure

Mar 19th 2026

DR reports that in January 2026 Denmark, fearing President Trump might try to seize Greenland, airlifted soldiers, explosives to disable runways and blood supplies, and secured rapid support from European allies to deter a US takeover.

  • DR reports Denmark rushed troops to Greenland in January 2026 with explosives to destroy runways and with blood supplies in case of casualties.
  • The rapid deployment included Danish elite units and allied forces from France, Germany, Norway and Sweden.
  • The action was intended to force any US attempt to seize Greenland to require an overtly hostile operation and thus raise the cost of such a move.
  • The immediate trigger was news that the US had attacked Venezuela and removed its president on 3 January 2026, which Danish and European officials saw as proof President Trump might use force.
  • Officials say they had no concrete intelligence of a US plan to attack Greenland but judged the threat credible given the US president's statements and personnel situation.
  • France and other European allies offered troops, naval and air support after Danish requests to build a united political and military response.
  • After the crisis Denmark joined a strategic nuclear cooperation with France with seven other European states and moved continued Greenland activity under NATO, while officials warn the issue could reappear during President Trump’s remaining term.

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