Denmark commits $2.9 billion for safeguarding Greenland
The Danish government is investing in the defence of Greenland. It plans to allocate 15 billion kroner (approximately 2.9 billion CAD), which will be used, among other things, for three Arctic warships and two long-range drones.
The agreement on this matter, known as the "Arctic Agreement," was signed by both the ruling parties and the majority of the opposition. The decision was supported by the authorities of Denmark's dependent territories, Greenland, and the Faroe Islands.
Danish Defence Minister Troels Lund Poulsen emphasized that this is the first stage of a political agreement for the security of Greenland and the North Atlantic. Further stages are to be agreed upon by the end of the summer of 2025.
- We want to say that more will need to be done for the Arctic, both in terms of greater presence in Greenland and creating a better image - emphasized Poulsen at a specially convened conference.
Reaction to US actions
The decision on investments came three weeks after Donald Trump, still as President-elect of the USA, did not rule out using force to take over Greenland. Danish broadcaster DR noted that over the weekend Trump reminded Danish authorities that they sent two dog sled teams to Greenland.
Minister Poulsen noted that Denmark wants to cooperate with other allies in the Arctic region, such as Canada, Norway, and the USA.
- This is not an effort that should be borne solely by Denmark - Poulsen emphasized at the press conference.
