Denmark Boosts Defense Spending in Greenland Amid US Interest
Denmark has announced a significant increase in defense spending for Greenland, just hours after US President-elect Donald Trump reiterated his desire to purchase the Arctic territory. The move is seen as a strategic response to growing US interest in the region.
A “Double-Digit Amount in Billions”
Danish Defense Minister Troels Lund Poulsen revealed that the new defense package would amount to a “double-digit amount in billions” in crowns, equivalent to at least $1.5 billion. He acknowledged the timing of the announcement as an “irony of fate,” given Trump’s recent comments.
Trump’s Strategy: Putting Pressure on Allies
Experts believe that Trump’s comments are part of a broader strategy to pressure allies into gaining an advantage in future negotiations on bilateral issues. Greenland, a Danish autonomous territory, is home to a large American space facility and is of strategic importance to the US due to its location on the shortest route to Europe.
Strategic Importance of Greenland
Greenland is also rich in minerals and oil reserves, making it an attractive location for the US. The territory’s proximity to the Arctic Circle also makes it a crucial location for monitoring and controlling the region.
Denmark’s Response: Strengthening Military Presence
The new defense package will allow Denmark to acquire two new inspection boats, two long-range drones, and two additional teams of dog sleds. The plan also includes funds to increase staffing at the Arctic Command in Nuuk and modernize one of the three main civilian airports to operate with F-35 supersonic fighter jets.
Denmark’s Investment in the Arctic
Defense Minister Poulsen emphasized that Denmark has underinvested in the Arctic for many years and is now planning a stronger presence. The exact figure for the package has not been disclosed, but Danish media estimates it to be between 12,000 and 15 billion Danish crowns (between $1.67 billion and $2.09 billion).
Greenland’s Response: Open to Cooperation, Not for Sale
Greenland’s Prime Minister, Mute Egede, responded to Trump’s comments by assuring that “we are not for sale.” However, he emphasized the importance of remaining open to cooperation and trade, especially with neighboring countries.
Analysts’ Views: A Long-Term Plan
Analysts argue that the plan had been under negotiation for some time and should not be seen as a direct response to Trump’s comments. They believe that Denmark’s slow expansion of its military capabilities in Greenland has created a need for increased investment in the region.
Trump’s Intention: Pressuring Denmark
Army Commander Steen Kjaergaard of the Danish Defense Academy suggests that Trump’s intention may be to pressure Denmark into taking action. He believes that Trump’s comments are a strategic move to get Denmark to prioritize its military capabilities in the Arctic.