German troops leave Greenland early without explanation: Bild

A group of 15 German servicemen led by Rear Admiral Stefan Pauly unexpectedly and without explanation left Greenland and flew out of the island’s capital, Nuuk, reports Bild.
Just yesterday, January 17, it was announced that Bundeswehr soldiers would remain in Greenland longer than planned. Now the German armed forces have secretly left the territory without any announcements, statements, or other explanations.

The mission spokesperson on the ground did not respond to journalists’ inquiries. No explanations were received from Berlin either.

According to Bild, the order to withdraw came from Berlin only this morning. No explanations were provided to the troops on site. All planned meetings had to be urgently canceled.

Admiral Pauly stated just yesterday that they had exchanged views with the military of Denmark and other countries regarding the possibilities for further cooperation on the island. Berlin was informed of this, and they are now awaiting a response on the next steps.

Europe has expressed concern over recent statements from US President Donald Trump regarding Greenland and its strategic importance for America. EU officials are considering several options to protect the world’s largest island from potential steps by Washington.

Against the backdrop of these statements, NATO allies have already sent about 35 troops to the island to bolster its defense capabilities.

Germany this week sent an advance group of Bundeswehr troops to Greenland to strengthen the island’s defense.

Trump again emphasized the need to bring Greenland under US control to deploy the Golden Dome missile defense system, warning that without prompt action from NATO, the island could be at risk of being seized by Russia or China.

The United States plans to hold regular talks with Denmark and Greenland. As White House spokesperson Karoline Leavitt reported, the parties agreed to create a special working group that will deal with the technical aspects of possible agreements and continue consultations according to a clear schedule of meetings.

Trump also stated that he is imposing tariffs against a number of European countries until Washington is able to buy Greenland. The tariffs will be increased in two stages.

EU ambassadors will gather for an emergency meeting on January 18 in connection with new tariff threats from the United States, while EU leaders have already issued corresponding statements.