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NATO launches the Arctic Sentry Mission
On Wednesday Allied Command Operations (ACO) began the new multi-domain activity – Arctic Sentry to strengthen the NATO presence in the High North. The mission’s primarily goal is to increase the Alliance presence and security effort in the region as part of broader deterrence strategy aimed at countering growing Russian and Chinese influence in the region.
During his announcent NATO’s Secretary General Mark Rutte emphasised thatin the face of Russia’s increased military activity and Chinese’s growing interest in the High North it was crucial that we do more. Also, he stressed that Arctic Sentry does not introduce entirely new actions, but rather coordinates existing initiatives previously taken by the Alliance – bringing this under one command - Joint Force Command Norfolk.
To maintain stability
Moreover, Gen. Alexus G. Grynkewich commander of the United States European Command and Supreme Allied Commander Europe highlighted thatArctic Sentry underscores the Alliance’s commitment to safeguard its members and maintain stability in one of the world’s most strategically significant and environmentally challenging areas.
The mission includes several upcoming military exercises such as Denmark’s Arctic Endurance or Norway’s Cold Response which brings together the efforts and capabilities from multiple NATO members.
Worth to mention that Arctic Sentry is based on the previous military exercise – Baltic Sentry – announced in January 2025. The main objective is to strengthen the protection critical infrastructure (including submarine cables and pipelines) mostly from potential threats posed by Russian Federation, that is constantly attacking these installations using the shadow fleet vessels. Through Baltic Sentry Alliance endeavour to increase the military presence in the Baltic Sea and improve its ability to respond to destabilising actions.
Transatlantic tensions
The launch of the Arctic Sentry follows the last meeting between U.S. President Donald J. Trump and NATO Secretary General Mark Rutte during World Economic Forum in Davos where the two leaders agreed that NATO must assume greater collective responsibility for the defence of the region taking into consideration Moscow’s military activity and Beijing’s growing interest in this area.
Importantly, the announcement of this initiative comes amid ongoing transatlantic tensions related to President Trump’s interest in acquiring Greenland. As for now the NATO’s states together with Secretary General managed to appease Trump’s demands, nevertheless considering the dynamism of the U.S. administration the Alliance must remain active, united and effective.
