Belgium announced during the January 17, 2026, period from 2:46 PM to 3:46 PM UTC that it will send a defense officer to an international reconnaissance mission in Greenland starting Monday, January 19, under Danish command as part of NATO efforts to strengthen military presence and training in the Arctic, according to an X post by Foreign Minister Maxime Prévot. The mission aims to identify opportunities for future military exercises and increased presence for deterrence and defense in the geostrategic region, with further NATO consultations planned on training activities. Defense Minister Theo Francken stated, “Security in the Arctic region is of strategic importance for the entire alliance. By participating in this mission, we demonstrate our commitment to NATO and contribute to the collective efforts to secure this strategically important region.” Prévot added, “This reconnaissance mission is fully in line with our efforts to strengthen international cooperation. The Arctic region requires a common approach from all allies, and Belgium is happy to assume its responsibilities in this regard.” A post on X by OJoelsen at 12:30 PM local time in Nuuk announced a demonstration starting in half an hour in central Nuuk, proceeding toward the American consulate amid +1°C temperatures and rain, under the hashtag #StandWithGreenland. This Belgian commitment follows NATO-related activities in Greenland, including Denmark's 150 troops, France's 15 soldiers, Germany's 13-person reconnaissance team, and contributions from other allies, as reported in prior updates today. It occurs amid U.S. senior advisor Stephen Miller's earlier statement that Denmark cannot defend Greenland due to its limited military and economy, per an X post by Acyn during the previous window.
