Today’s news / Denmark’s PM sees increased defense spending
Prime Minister Mette Frederiksen (S) sees increasing defense expenditure as a necessity for NATO countries, but she does not specify how much she believes the countries should spend. (Archive photo). Photo: Vesa Moilanen/Reuters

Denmark’s PM sees increased defense spending

Danish prime minister Mette Frederiksen agrees with NATO secretary general that NATO countries will need to spend more than 2% of their GDP on defense. While she did not specify exact figures, she acknowledged the need for greater armament, stating current levels are insufficient. NATO Secretary General Mark Rutte suggested a target of 3.6-3.7% GDP on defense can be reduced through collaborative innovation and joint procurement. Sweden’s prime minister, Ulf Kristersson, echoes the sentiment, emphasizing Europe’s responsibility to fund more of its defense. Denmark currently meets the 2% GDP defense spending goal following bipartisan support in response to Russia’s invasion of Ukraine. The US president-elect Donald Trump suggests a 5% defense spending target for NATO countries, a significant increase from current levels. Denmark’s government has not committed to a specific target, but foreign minister Lars Løkke Rasmussen hinted it may be closer to 3% than 2%.