Denmark Boosts Greenland Defenses After Trump’s Remarks

Denmark has announced a significant increase in defense spending for Greenland, hours after former US President Donald Trump reiterated his desire for American control over the Arctic territory.

Danish Defense Minister Troels Lund Poulsen unveiled a multi-billion-dollar defense package, valued at over 1.5 billion USD, to strengthen Greenland’s strategic capabilities.

Poulsen described the timing of the announcement as a "twist of fate," coinciding with Trump’s comments on the necessity of US ownership of the resource-rich island.

Greenland, an autonomous Danish territory, holds a vital strategic position as the shortest route between North America and Europe. It is home to a significant US space facility and possesses extensive mineral reserves, further fueling global interest.

The defense package includes two new patrol ships, two long-range drones, additional sled teams, investments in expanding the North Pole Command in Nuuk, and upgrades to a major civilian airport to accommodate F-35 supersonic fighter jets.

While Minister Poulsen did not disclose exact figures, Danish media estimate the package to be between 12-15 billion kroner. The announcement follows Trump’s statement on his Truth Social platform reiterating his belief in the U.S. acquiring Greenland.

Greenland's Prime Minister Múte Egede responded firmly, stating, “We are not for sale,” while emphasizing the importance of maintaining open cooperation and trade, particularly with neighboring countries.

Experts suggest the increased defense budget reflects years of deliberation rather than a direct reaction to Trump’s comments.

However, analysts point out that Denmark has been slow to expand its military presence in Greenland. In light of increasing pressures from global powers such as China and Russia, this delay has raised concerns about the country's ability to secure its Arctic waters.

Military analyst Major Steen Kjærgaard from the Danish Defense Academy speculates Trump’s renewed interest might have been a deliberate attempt to prompt Denmark into bolstering Greenland’s defenses.

Trump’s 2019 proposal to purchase Greenland sparked widespread backlash, with Danish Prime Minister Mette Frederiksen dismissing the idea as "absurd." The remark led Trump to cancel a planned state visit to Denmark.