Defense funds near empty despite upcoming deals

Denmark’s defense minister Troels Lund Poulsen warns that nearly all of the allocated 200 billion kroner for defense are spent, with only about 20 billion kroner left. Upcoming requirements include a naval plan with costs likely in the tens of billions, and Denmark needs to prepare for new NATO strength goals expected by summer, possibly with a focus on Arctic efforts in light of U.S. geopolitical interests. Denmark aims to meet the increasing demands and enhance defense spending, which will be discussed at NATO’s upcoming summit. The government has set aside 195 billion kroner until 2033 for defense, but anticipates a greater need. A new defense deal for the Arctic and North Atlantic, worth nearly 15 billion kroner, has been signed, with further plans for regional security enhancement due in half a year.