Denmark has revealed plans to increase its defense spending for Greenland in order to establish a “stronger presence in the Arctic,” shortly after Donald Trump reiterated his interest in the US purchasing the expansive island.
Danish defense minister Troels Lund Poulsen stated that the investment would amount to a “double-digit billion amount” in krone, equivalent to at least $1.5 billion (£1.2 billion).
In an interview with Jyllands-Posten newspaper, Poulsen outlined that the funds would be allocated towards acquiring two inspection ships, two long-range drones, two sled dog teams, and more personnel for Denmark’s Arctic Command based in Nuuk.
Denmark also intends to enhance the Kangerlussuaq Airport to accommodate F-35 fighter jets.
Donald Trump has restated his desire for the US to control Greenland. Pic: Reuters
Greenland, located between the Atlantic and Arctic oceans, is predominantly covered by an ice sheet and houses a significant US military base.
As the largest island globally, with its capital closer to New York than Copenhagen, Greenland possesses valuable mineral, oil, and natural gas resources.
However, economic development has been sluggish, leading to a reliance on fishing and annual subsidies from Denmark.
“We have not adequately invested in the Arctic for many years, but now we are planning to reinforce our presence,” Poulsen remarked.
He described the timing of the announcement as an “irony of fate,” aligning with Trump’s recent remarks regarding the territory’s purchase.
Given the significance of the Pituffik air base, Greenland holds strategic importance for the US military and its ballistic missile early-warning system.
Greenland remains steadfast
The president-elect’s comments stirred controversy within the territory, asserting that American control of the island was imperative for global security and freedom.
Prime Minister Mute Egede responded defiantly, emphasizing that “Greenland is our land. We are not up for sale and will never be for sale. Our long struggle for independence must endure.”
In line with the prime minister, Danish defense minister Poulsen remarked, “My stance echoes the prime minister’s sentiment. Greenland is not interested in trading sovereignty for other alliances. The decision ultimately lies with Greenland.”
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Greenland’s Prime Minister Mute Egede. File pic: Reuters
Mr Trump also floated the idea of purchasing Greenland during his initial presidential term, a notion dismissed as “absurd” by Danish Prime Minister Mette Frederiksen.
Greenland has been under Danish sovereignty for over six centuries and achieved autonomy from Denmark in 1979.
Guided by Greenland’s self-government act established in 2009 by Denmark and Greenland, the local population is recognized as a distinct entity with the right to self-determination, including the option of independence.
In a recent statement announcing Ken Howery as his ambassador to Denmark, Trump reiterated, “The United States believes that ownership and control of Greenland are essential for global security and freedom.”
The president has also raised concerns about the Panama Canal’s control, accusing Panama of imposing exorbitant fees for its use, a critical passageway connecting the Pacific and Atlantic oceans.