Denmark Boosts Arctic Defense Spending Amid Trump’s Greenland Remarks

Denmark has announced a significant increase in defense spending for Greenland, a day after US President-elect Donald Trump reiterated his desire for the US to purchase the Arctic territory. The defense package, estimated at $1.5bn, includes funding for new inspection ships, long-range drones, dog sled teams, staffing at Arctic Command, and an airport upgrade for F-35 fighter jets. Danish Defense Minister Troels Lund Poulsen emphasized the need for a stronger military presence in the Arctic.

This move, although not directly in response to Trump’s comments, comes after his statement that control of Greenland is crucial for US national security.

Greenland's Prime Minister Mute Egede rejected Trump's proposal, asserting that Greenland is not for sale but remained open to cooperation.

Analysts suggest that the defense boost may be influenced by Trump's renewed focus on securing air and maritime control over Greenland. Trump’s previous attempt to buy the island in 2019 was similarly met with rejection from Denmark.