Denmark has announced a major increase in its Arctic defense spending, shortly after former US President Donald Trump reiterated his interest in buying Greenland.
The move is seen as a strong message to the United States (US) that Denmark is serious about protecting Greenland, an Arctic territory that has been under Danish sovereignty for more than 600 years.
The Danish government will spend at least $1.5 billion to improve security, including buying two new inspection ships, long-range drones, and adding two teams of dog sleds.
Denmark will also upgrade Greenland's airport to support military jets and add staff to the Arctic Command in Nuuk, Greenland's capital.
Trump previously proposed buying Greenland in 2019, an idea that Denmark called "'nonsense'."
His renewed interest stems from Greenland's strategic location and rich mineral resources.
The island is home to a critical US Air Force base and is key to Arctic defenses.
Greenland's leaders, however, insist the territory is not for sale but they welcome stronger ties with the US, especially if it helps their economy.
For Denmark, this defense boost ensures they remain in control while balancing Greenland's autonomy and global interests in the Arctic.
