NATO has begun its biennial Arctic military exercise, Cold Response, with a stronger focus on civilian support for military operations. The drill comes amid heightened tensions over US President Donald Trump’s push to take control of Greenland, a self-governing territory of NATO member Denmark. The exercise runs from 9 to 19 March and is now part of Arctic Sentry, a NATO mission aimed at strengthening the alliance’s presence in the polar region.
Exercise Overview
- Cold Response is a recurring NATO exercise held in Arctic conditions.
- This year’s edition involves around 25,000 troops from 14 countries.
- The United States is expected to deploy about 4,000 personnel.
- The exercise is designed to test readiness in harsh northern environments.
Strategic Context
- The drill is taking place during a sensitive geopolitical moment.
- Trump has argued that the US needs Greenland to counter Russian and Chinese activity in the Arctic.
- He has also questioned Denmark’s ability to ensure Greenland’s security.
- Denmark and Greenland have both stated that the island is not for sale.
Arctic Sentry Mission
- Cold Response has been integrated into Arctic Sentry, NATO’s broader Arctic posture.
- The mission aims to reinforce deterrence and alliance visibility in the polar region.
- It also reflects growing concern over strategic competition in the Arctic.
- Civilian support in military operations has been given greater importance in this year’s drill.
Why It Matters
- The exercise marks the Arctic’s rising importance in global security.
- It underlines NATO’s interest in safeguarding northern routes and territories.
- It also shows how territorial disputes can affect alliance politics.
- The drill adds to wider debate on sovereignty, security, and Arctic militarisation.