On Saturday morning, there were greetings and thanks from the political side to the soldiers in Greenland.
Minister of Defense Troels Lund Poulsen and Minister of Foreign Affairs Vivian Motzfeldt (S) visited the Buksefjord Power Plant, where Danish soldiers currently constitute a so-called guard contribution.
The journalists present from Greenland, Denmark and the international press asked, among other things, the Minister of Defense whether the many soldiers will now be an everyday occurrence in Greenland.
- We have a permanent presence in Greenland, and we have had that historically. We have decided here in the autumn of 2025 that we will have a larger military presence, and I would also like to see more NATO allies present.
- A new normal
Plans are underway for a more permanent exercise activity in Greenland. It is on the Chief of Defence's table right now, the minister said. Chief of Defence Michael Hyldgaard was also present at the Buksefjord Power Plant.
Vivian Motzfeldt emphasized to the foreign journalists that the military presence is a "new normal" in Greenland.
"It is important for the Greenlandic people to feel that we are not alone. That is why we are here today," she continued.
Vivian Motzfeldt is also aware that the military also makes some citizens nervous. Therefore, she emphasized the importance of good dialogue.
- It's important to mention that we're holding a citizens' meeting later today. And it's important to talk to people, even if not all questions can be answered today.
Many meetings on the way
Several journalists also wanted answers about how negotiations with the US in the new working group are going.
- As we have already announced, the meeting went well. We have made it clear where our red lines lie. There will be many meetings in the future, and I think we should give them peace of mind, said Vivian Motzfeldt.
Both politicians then turned to the gathering of soldiers and thanked them for their presence and efforts.
The soldiers then held a short exercise for the TV cameras before the party headed back towards the boats and helicopters. Later on Saturday, as mentioned, there will be a citizens' meeting and another door-step with the politicians.
