Canada considers sending small number of troops to Greenland as Trump seeks to acquire island

All eyes are on PM Carney and his push to diversify trade partnerships away from a heavy reliance on the U.S., amid Trump's threats against Greenland.

The Canadian government is considering sending a small number of troops to participate in training exercises in Greenland, following the lead of multiple European countries, a senior federal government source tells CTV News.

This, as U.S. President Donald’s Trump continues to insist he “needs” the Danish autonomous territory for national security purposes, and ramps up demands to take control of the island.

A final decision about whether to send any Canadian troops has not been made, according to the source. The contingent is likely to be very small, and a symbolic show of support.

A bloc of European nations has already sent troops for military exercises around Greenland. On Saturday, Trump said Denmark, Norway, Sweden, France, Germany, the United Kingdom, the Netherlands and Finland will face a 10 per cent tariff starting Feb. 1 in consequence.

“Denmark, Norway, Sweden, France, Germany, The United Kingdom, The Netherlands, and Finland have journeyed to Greenland, for purposes unknown,” wrote Trump on Truth Social Saturday. “This is a very dangerous situation for the Safety, Security, and Survival of our Planet. These Countries, who are playing this very dangerous game, have put a level of risk in play that is not tenable or sustainable.”

Germany sent about a dozen troops to the island, and Canada’s showing would likely be smaller than that.

Earlier on Sunday, Carney told reporters in Doha, Qatar that Canada is “concerned” about U.S. “escalation.”

Trump contends that control of the island is important for his so-called Golden Dome defence system and to fend off Russian and Chinese aggression.

During a meeting with oil executives on Jan. 9, Trump said the U.S. plans to “do something on Greenland whether they like it or not.”

Trump’s tariff threats pushed the European Union to convene an emergency meeting in Brussels.

“Territorial integrity and sovereignty are fundamental principles of international law. They are essential for Europe and for the international community as a whole,” read a statement from EU Council President Antonio Costa and President of the European Commission Ursula von der Layen.

“Tariffs would undermine transatlantic relations and risk a dangerous downward spiral. Europe will remain united, coordinated, and committed to upholding its sovereignty.”

With files from CTV News Chief Political Correspondent Vassy Kapelos