Hungary left out of NATO-linked military drills in Greenland

Hungary will not take part in a forthcoming military exercise in Greenland, as the Hungarian Defence Forces were not invited to participate, the Ministry of Defence has confirmed.

What will happen to Greenland? And what will be Europe’s answer to the US’s steps?

The drills come at a time of heightened geopolitical tension, following controversial remarks by former US president Donald Trump about the possible forceful annexation of the strategically important Arctic island, as reported by HVG.

Several NATO member states have announced that they will deploy troops to Greenland, an autonomous territory belonging to Denmark, which is also a member of the alliance. The move is widely seen as a show of unity and deterrence, amid concerns sparked by Trump’s repeated statements suggesting that the United States should take control of the island for national security reasons.

Trump has argued that Greenland must be placed under American control to prevent Russia or China from gaining influence in the Arctic region. His comments have alarmed European leaders and have reportedly strained the long-standing security partnership between Europe and the United States, raising questions about trust and stability within NATO.

Hungary is not included in the nations sending military forces there

In response to media inquiries, including questions from Index, Hungary’s Ministry of Defence stated clearly that Budapest had not been asked to contribute forces. “The Hungarian Defence Forces have not received an invitation to take part. Hungarian soldiers will not be participating in the Greenland military exercise,” the ministry said.

Denmark, which is responsible for Greenland’s defence, has previously warned that any attack on the island would effectively signal the end of NATO as a credible alliance. Earlier this week, Danish authorities announced that they would expand their military presence in Greenland in “close cooperation with NATO allies”.

Several European countries have already confirmed their involvement. Germany, Sweden, France and Norway are expected to deploy military units to the island in the coming days. Canada has also expressed strong interest in the region, underlining the growing strategic importance of the Arctic as melting ice opens new shipping routes and access to natural resources.

In addition to military measures, diplomatic activity is also increasing. Canada and France have both announced plans to open consulates in Nuuk, Greenland’s capital, in the coming weeks, further signalling their long-term commitment to the region.