The government of Denmark has announced a significant increase in military spending in the North Atlantic region, coinciding with U.S. President Donald Trump’s controversial proposal to purchase or cede Greenland to the United States.
On Monday, the Danish government revealed a new agreement worth 14.6 billion kroner (approximately billion) aimed at enhancing surveillance capabilities and maintaining sovereignty over the region. This agreement includes collaboration with the governments of Greenland and the Faroe Islands.
The Danish Defense Ministry outlined plans to bolster its military presence by acquiring three new Arctic naval vessels, two long-range surveillance drones, and expanding satellite capabilities.
Following this announcement, Denmark’s Prime Minister Mette Frederiksen embarked on a diplomatic tour of key European capitals, including Berlin, Paris, and Brussels, where she engaged with NATO Secretary General Mark Rutte.
During her meetings, Frederiksen emphasized the need for Europe to adapt to a “more uncertain reality,” indicating that Denmark would enhance its military posture around Greenland in response to shifting geopolitical dynamics.
This increase in military readiness comes in the wake of Trump’s repeated assertions that Greenland is crucial to U.S. national security and his expressed interest in acquiring the territory. The former president has even suggested that military force could be a potential avenue to secure control over the island.
Although Frederiksen did not directly address Trump’s statements during her discussions with German Chancellor Olaf Scholz, she underscored the importance of European unity and cooperation in the face of growing challenges.
In a related development, the EU military chief has indicated that deploying European troops in Greenland could be a strategic move, reflecting heightened concerns over security in the Arctic region.
Frederiksen pointed to Russia’s actions in Ukraine and other areas as a call for Europe to take greater responsibility for its own security. “It is up to Europe to define the future of our continent,” she stated, advocating for increased collaboration among European nations.
As part of the recent military enhancement strategy, the Danish Defense Ministry announced that negotiations for a second agreement focused on strengthening deterrence and defense would take place in the first half of this year.
Defense Minister Troels Lund Poulsen acknowledged the pressing security challenges in the Arctic and North Atlantic, stating, “We must strengthen our presence in the region.” He also highlighted the importance of ensuring that investments support local jobs and businesses in Greenland and the Faroe Islands.
While Greenland’s government has reiterated that the territory is not for sale, it remains open to cooperation with Denmark and other allies. Notably, the Defense Ministry’s announcement did not reference Trump’s ambitions regarding Greenland.