The Danish government has announced an increase in military spending in the North Atlantic, responding to U.S. President Donald Trump’s controversial suggestion to purchase or cede Greenland to the United States.
On Monday, the Danish government revealed a significant agreement amounting to 14.6 billion kroner (approximately $2 billion) with the governments of Greenland and the Faroe Islands. This investment aims to enhance surveillance capabilities and maintain sovereignty in the region.
The Danish Defense Ministry in Copenhagen detailed plans to acquire three new Arctic naval vessels, two long-range surveillance drones, and expand satellite capacity.
Following this announcement, Denmark’s Prime Minister, Mette Frederiksen, visited major European cities including Berlin, Paris, and Brussels, where she engaged with NATO Secretary General Mark Rutte.
In an assertive statement, Danish lawmaker addresses EU, telling Trump to ‘F— off’ over Greenland bid, Frederiksen emphasized that Europe must confront a “more uncertain reality” and reaffirmed Denmark’s commitment to bolstering its military presence in Greenland.
This diplomatic visit comes in light of Trump’s repeated assertions that Greenland is vital to U.S. national security and his expressed interest in acquiring the territory, even hinting at potential military action.
While Frederiksen refrained from directly addressing Trump’s remarks during her meeting with German Chancellor Olaf Scholz, she acknowledged the pressing need for a more unified Europe and enhanced cooperation amidst heightened tensions.
Additionally, EU military chief suggests deploying European troops in Greenland, highlighting the strategic importance of the region.
Frederiksen pointed to escalating Russian activities in Ukraine as a catalyst for Europe to define its own security future, stating, “It is up to Europe to determine the future of our continent, and we must take greater responsibility for our security.”
The Danish Defense Ministry also indicated plans to negotiate a second agreement in the first half of this year, focusing on enhancing deterrence and defense strategies in the Arctic and North Atlantic.
Defense Minister Troels Lund Poulsen expressed the need to address serious security challenges in the region, emphasizing that strengthening military presence is crucial. He also highlighted that ensuring investments benefit local jobs and businesses in Greenland and the Faroe Islands will be a central focus.
Despite the ongoing discussions, Greenland’s government has firmly stated that the territory is not for sale but remains open to cooperation. Notably, the Defense Ministry’s statement did not reference Trump’s acquisition ambitions.
