Denmark is injecting an additional 50 billion DKK ($7 billion) into its defense budget over the next two years, exceeding 3% of GDP on military spending. The move aims to speed up the country’s armed forces and prepare for a potential threat from Russia.
According to the Danish Ministry of Defence, Russia could free up significant military resources within about 2 years if the war in Ukraine stops or freezes and NATO doesn’t arm itself at the same pace. This warning is echoed by other regional officials, including Lt. General Carl-Johan Edström of Sweden’s Chief of Defense Staff.
European powers are grappling with the reality of needing to do more to protect the continent without relying on US support. The US President Donald Trump’s comments on Ukraine President Volodymyr Zelenskyy have heightened concerns that Washington may be willing to negotiate a peace deal along pro-Russian lines.
Denmark’s government has made it clear that it will not compromise its security, with Prime Minister Mette Frederiksen stating that the country would not engage in military action over Greenland. The extra funding will focus on building the armed forces’ combat power and strengthening Arctic security.
This move comes as Denmark also commits to spending $2.04 billion on new naval vessels, long-range drones, and improved space capabilities to bolster its defenses.
Source: https://breakingdefense.com/2025/02/denmark-to-pass-3-percent-gdp-on-defense-over-fear-of-russian-rearmament