In the wake of a crisis within the alliance triggered by U.S. President Donald Trump's attempt to acquire Greenland, NATO will enhance its presence in the Arctic through a new mission.

The North Atlantic Treaty Organization announced the launch of the mission, named "Arctic Sentinel," on Wednesday, just one day before defense ministers from the alliance are scheduled to meet in Brussels.

The announcement comes only weeks after Trump's remarks regarding Greenland, an autonomous territory of Denmark and a NATO ally, pushed transatlantic partnerships to the brink of fracture. Following a meeting with NATO Secretary General Mark Rutte, Trump ultimately stepped back temporarily.

NATO stated that the "Arctic Sentinel" mission, building on discussions from that meeting, will help the alliance better coordinate its activities in the region.

The topic is expected to be addressed during Thursday's meeting.

NATO has been strengthening its Arctic presence since January, when Trump insisted on being allowed to acquire Greenland. As global warming opens up more areas and shipping routes, the largely ice-covered island is becoming increasingly strategic.