FT learned about Italy's military buildup in the Arctic

The Italian army is developing its combat potential in the Arctic, which indicates the growing interest of the southern European country in the northern region against the background of increased geostrategic competition. This was reported on January 16 by the Financial Times (FT) newspaper with reference to the new Arctic strategy of the Italian government.

"The document notes that the Italian army is developing its combat capabilities in the Arctic and subarctic regions, and the Italian armed forces have recently established a steering committee for the Arctic, subarctic regions and Antarctica, indicating a growing interest in the Far North," the publication says.

According to the publication, Rome is committed to continuing scientific programs, supporting the interests of national companies and participating in discussions related to the development of the Arctic. At the same time, without assuming a leading role, Italy aims to "support the European players responsible for managing the region."

It is noted that Rome's interest in the north is growing against the background of increased geopolitical competition. According to Italian Prime Minister Giorgio Meloni, an increase in the military presence of European NATO member countries in the Arctic can convince US President Donald Trump that the alliance can protect American interests in the north, so there is no need to seize control of Greenland.

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The day before, the Bild newspaper reported that the first military personnel from European countries arrived in Greenland amid statements by the American leader about the need for the island to join the United States. According to the newspaper, the Hercules military transport aircraft of the Danish army landed at the airport of the capital of Greenland Nuuk, later units from Germany, the Netherlands, Canada, Sweden, Great Britain and Norway also went to Greenland.

Later it was reported that the European member states of the NATO bloc, at the request of Denmark, are ready to send about 35 military personnel to protect Greenland from the United States. It was noted that the Danish Armed Forces (AF) will strengthen their military presence in this territory with the help of their allies in the North Atlantic Alliance, as well as intensify exercises on the island.

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