Denmark boosts North Atlantic defense spending by $2 billion amid Greenland dispute with Trump “`

Denmark is bolstering its North Atlantic military capabilities with a $2 billion investment, spurred by U.S. President Trump’s pursuit of Greenland.

A 14.6 billion-kroner agreement – nearly $2 billion – was announced Monday, involving Greenland and the Faroe Islands, to enhance regional surveillance and sovereignty.

This will include three new Arctic naval vessels, two long-range surveillance drones, and expanded satellite capacity, according to the Danish Defense Ministry. 

Following this announcement, Prime Minister Mette Frederiksen visited Berlin, Paris, and Brussels, meeting with Dutch Prime Minister Mark Rutte.

Frederiksen emphasized Europe’s increasingly uncertain security landscape and Denmark’s commitment to strengthening its military presence around Greenland.

This follows Trump’s repeated assertions of Greenland’s importance to U.S. national security and economic interests, including suggestions of purchasing or even forcibly taking control of the island. 

While not directly addressing Trump’s threats during a meeting with German Chancellor Olaf Scholz, Frederiksen highlighted the need for a more united and self-reliant Europe in the face of global uncertainty.

She cited Russian actions in Ukraine as a key factor, stressing Europe’s responsibility for its own security.

The Danish Defense Ministry plans a second agreement by mid-year focusing on deterrence and defense in the Arctic and North Atlantic.

Defense Minister Troels Lund Poulsen stated the need to strengthen regional presence due to significant security and defense challenges.

The ministry emphasized supporting local jobs and businesses in Greenland and the Faroe Islands as a priority. 

Greenland maintains its non-negotiable sovereignty while remaining open to collaboration, though the Defense Ministry statement made no explicit reference to Trump’s proposals.

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