NATO nears final planning for new Arctic mission amid rising activity

2026-02-10 - 07:45

NATO is in the final stages of planning a new mission to bolster its presence in the Arctic, the alliance's supreme commander in Europe confirmed on Monday. U.S. General Alexus Grynkewich stated that preparations for the operation, known as "Arctic Sentry," are nearly complete, signaling a direct response to heightened military and strategic activities by Russia and China in the High North. Finalizing the "Arctic Sentry" Plan Speaking during a visit to Luxembourg, Gen. Grynkewich clarified that the mission has not yet commenced. He indicated he expects to receive further operational details from NATO’s Joint Force Command in Norfolk, Virginia, and that a formal announcement could follow in the coming days pending final approvals. The mission is designed to enhance the alliance's surveillance and deterrence posture in the increasingly contested Arctic region. Reaffirming the U.S. Commitment to NATO During his remarks, Gen. Grynkewich strongly reaffirmed the United States' commitment to NATO's collective defense principle, Article 5, describing it as "ironclad." He dismissed speculation about a reduced U.S. role, emphasizing that Washington is actively working to ensure the alliance remains a robust military coalition. Assessment on Ukraine and Russia Contacts On the ongoing war in Ukraine, the commander stated that demilitarization is not an option for Kyiv while the conflict continues, acknowledging a difficult battlefield situation exacerbated by winter and Russian strikes on infrastructure. He also confirmed that while the U.S. has re-established direct military communication lines with Russia, any broader political engagement would be determined at a higher governmental level.