The Danish government recently announced a large-scale defense budget of $2 billion (approximately 14.6 billion kroner) to strengthen its military presence in the Arctic region. This measure comes as former U.S. President Donald Trump has once again expressed his intention to purchase Greenland, and Denmark is preparing a strong response to it.
The Danish government plans to enhance its defense capabilities in the Arctic with this budget. In particular, it will significantly expand its military surveillance capacity by deploying three new naval vessels, introducing four long-range surveillance drones, and acquiring satellite surveillance equipment. Danish Prime Minister Mette Frederiksen emphasized, “The stability and security of the Arctic region are among our nation’s top priorities, and a strategic response is necessary.”
This announcement was triggered by former President Trump once again highlighting the strategic importance of Greenland. Trump insisted that the United States should acquire Greenland, emphasizing its rich natural resources and its value as a key military location in the Arctic. However, the Danish government strongly opposed this claim, firmly stating, “Greenland is an autonomous territory and is not for sale.”
Reactions among Greenlandic residents are divided. Some support the current system, where Greenland maintains autonomy while receiving support from the Danish government, stressing the importance of preserving Greenland’s cultural identity. On the other hand, some cautiously consider the potential benefits of U.S. economic support for Greenland’s development.
The Danish government plans to further strengthen cooperation with Greenland and the Faroe Islands through this budget. Through these efforts, Denmark aims to expand its military influence in the Arctic region and secure an advantage in geopolitical competition with the United States and Russia.
Such moves are heightening international tensions in the Arctic region. Due to climate change, new shipping routes are opening, and resource exploration is becoming more active, drawing the attention of major global powers. Consequently, Denmark and other nations are strengthening their military readiness and competing to secure dominance in the Arctic.
Denmark’s latest action is seen as a strategic response aimed at maintaining its international influence in the Arctic, beyond merely strengthening its defense capabilities. As the geopolitical significance of the Arctic continues to grow, the world is watching how tensions between Denmark, the U.S., and other major powers will unfold.
