On December 24, Denmark announced a substantial increase in its defense budget for Greenland.
Troels Lund Poulsen, Danish Minister of Defence, revealed a package to expand defense spending in Greenland. While the exact figure was not disclosed, it was reported to be in the billions of Danish kroner. Local media estimate the budget to be at least $1.5 billion.
Greenland, the world’s largest island, is an autonomous territory under Denmark, which manages its defense and foreign policy.
The increased defense budget will likely fund the acquisition of two surveillance ships, two long-range drones, and the establishment of two additional Sirius Dog Sled Patrol.
Plans also include strengthening the Arctic Command in Nuuk, Greenland’s capital, and upgrading one of Greenland’s three civilian airports to accommodate F-35 fighter jets.
A day earlier, on December 23, U.S. President-elect Donald Trump stated on social media, the US would seek ownership and control of Greenland for “purposes of national security and freedom throughout the world”
Poulsen acknowledged that Denmark has not sufficiently invested in the Arctic region in recent years but is now planning to enhance the capabilities of its stationed forces. He described Trump’s remarks and the increased defense spending for Greenland as an ironic twist of fate.
