Denmark has announced a significant $2.05 billion investment in military defense for Greenland and the Arctic, as tensions rise over President Donald Trump’s renewed push to acquire the island. The move underscores Denmark’s commitment to maintaining sovereignty over the strategically vital territory while bolstering defenses against potential geopolitical threats.
Strengthening Arctic defenses
Danish Defense Minister Troels Lund Poulsen justified the move, stating, “We must face the fact that there are serious challenges regarding security and defense in the Arctic and North Atlantic.” The new investment will fund the acquisition of three Arctic patrol ships, long-range drones with advanced imaging technology, and satellite enhancements to improve surveillance and intelligence capabilities in the region.
The agreement, negotiated with Greenland’s government and the Faeroe Islands, highlights growing concerns over both Russian activity in the Arctic and Trump’s repeated claims that Greenland should be part of the United States.
Trump refuses to rule out force
Trump has reignited controversy by suggesting Denmark has no legitimate claim to Greenland. In December, he declared that acquiring Greenland is “an absolute necessity” for U.S. national security.
During a press conference last Saturday, Trump told reporters, “I think we’re going to have it… I think the people want to be with us.” When asked if he would rule out using force or economic pressure, Trump refused to answer directly, instead claiming that blocking a U.S. takeover would be “a very unfriendly act” by Denmark.
A recent survey by Danish newspaper Berlingske and Greenlandic daily Sermitsiaq found that 85% of Greenlanders oppose becoming part of the U.S., with only 6% in favor.
Greenland, Denmark push back
Greenland’s Prime Minister Múte Egede issued a strong response, stating, “Let me repeat—Greenland belongs to the people of Greenland. Our future and fight for independence is our business… We should not be caught up in the hysteria and external pressures distracting us from our path.”
Danish Prime Minister Mette Frederiksen reaffirmed Denmark’s position after a meeting with French President Emmanuel Macron, emphasizing, “This is a very, very clear message… that of course there must be respect for territory and the sovereignty of states.”
The strategic stakes
Greenland’s location in the Arctic, its rich natural resources—including rare earth metals—and the potential for new shipping routes as sea ice melts have made it a focal point in global geopolitics. The U.S., China, and Russia all view the Arctic as an emerging battleground for influence and resources.
Trump’s push for Greenland’s acquisition is seen as part of a broader strategy to ensure U.S. dominance in the region. The Danish government, however, is making clear that it will not cede ground easily.
What happens next?
Denmark, Greenland, and the Faeroe Islands have agreed to a second round of negotiations on Arctic security in the first half of 2025. While no immediate military confrontation is expected, Denmark’s massive defense investment signals that it is taking Trump’s threats seriously and preparing for any potential escalation.
