In an effort to address growing security concerns, the Danish prime minister has begun a tour of key European capitals. Beginning on Tuesday, Mette Frederiksen is set to visit Berlin, Paris, and Brussels, a journey occurring during a time of “more uncertain reality” as her administration looks to bolster its military presence in Greenland.
During her trip, Frederiksen plans to engage with NATO Secretary General Mark Rutte in Brussels. The backdrop of her diplomatic mission includes recent remarks from U.S. President Donald Trump, who indicated he may consider military action to assert control over Greenland, an autonomous territory that is part of Denmark, which is affiliated with NATO and the European Union.
On Monday, the Danish government revealed a substantial agreement worth approximately 14.6 billion kroner (around $2 billion) made with leaders from Greenland and the Faroe Islands, aimed at enhancing surveillance and reinforcing sovereignty in the Arctic region. This enhancement will involve the addition of three new naval vessels designated for Arctic operations, alongside two long-range surveillance drones and improved satellite capabilities, as announced by the Defense Ministry in Copenhagen.
While Frederiksen refrained from addressing Trump’s remarks directly during a dialogue with German Chancellor Olaf Scholz, she emphasized the urgency for Europe to unite in the face of uncertainty. She pointed to the situation in Ukraine as a significant factor driving the need for enhanced collaboration among European nations. “It is essential for Europe to determine its own future and take greater responsibility for our security,” she remarked.
Further details from the Danish Defense Ministry highlighted ongoing negotiations for a second agreement aimed at reinforcing deterrence and defense in the Arctic and North Atlantic within the coming months. Defense Minister Troels Lund Poulsen acknowledged the pressing security challenges in these regions, urging a strengthened military presence to confront them.
The Defense Ministry noted that a priority will be placed on ensuring that investments foster local employment and support for businesses in Greenland and the Faroe Islands. Vivian Motzfeldt, Greenland’s minister responsible for statehood and foreign affairs, expressed her satisfaction with the initiatives underway to enhance security in and around Greenland through this agreement.
It’s important to note that while Greenland’s leadership has emphasized that the territory is not for sale, they remain open to cooperative ventures. However, the official statement from the Defense Ministry did not address President Trump’s aspirations regarding Greenland.
