Amid rising tensions in Europe, Denmark has announced plans for a major increase in military funding. Prime Minister Mette Frederiksen stated that the country must act swiftly to enhance its defense capabilities in response to the growing risk posed by Russia.
Frederiksen told lawmakers that Denmark is facing one of the most dangerous security challenges in recent history. She stressed that Europe is at risk and urged swift action to strengthen national defenses.
Denmark will spend 50 billion DKK ($7 billion) to rearm its military.
Initially, Danish government wanted to allocate more money to the fund, but European arms manufacturers are having a hard time keeping up with demand.
Source: Danish Broadcasting Corporation pic.twitter.com/RTClvaZ8w4
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Reports indicate that the Danish government will introduce a 50-billion-kroner ($7 billion) defense fund covering 2025-2026. The plan initially considered doubling the amount, but limited availability of military equipment led to a scaled-back approach.
Denmark PM says will announce ‘massive’ rearmament plans https://t.co/nVRJ74ijfg
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Among the planned military upgrades is the acquisition of air defense systems, which Denmark does not currently have. Danish public broadcaster DR reported that this purchase is a priority for the government as it seeks to modernize its forces.
If the defense spending increase is implemented, Denmark’s military budget will reach 3% of GDP, exceeding NATO’s 2% goal. Former President Donald Trump has called for NATO allies to raise their contributions to 5%, while the U.S. currently spends approximately 3.4% of its GDP on defense.
Denmark has played a major role in supporting Ukraine, providing an estimated $7.52 billion in military assistance and $741 million in civilian aid since the war began in 2022, according to the Danish foreign ministry.
