Denmark has taken over the presidency of the Council of the European Union this week, and Defense will be a "top priority" during this term until December 31. Because "the world is under pressure and there is a war on European soil," as stated by the Danish Government's Vice Prime Minister and Defense Minister, Troels Lund Poulsen.
Furthermore, "Russian aggression is the most significant threat to Europe, and many sources, including the Danish intelligence service, estimate that the military threat from Russia will increase in the coming years," he added. Therefore, the Danish presidency will work towards advancing "a secure Europe capable of defending itself by 2030," emphasized the Defense Minister to a group of European media, including EL MUNDO, in Copenhagen.
Denmark's statement comes at a time when Spain is refusing to increase military spending beyond 2% of Gross Domestic Product (GDP). The Spanish Prime Minister, Pedro Sánchez, signed an agreement with NATO last week committing the Alliance countries to reach 5% of GDP in military spending within ten years, but the Prime Minister maintains that he will not do so. He believes that 2.1% will be sufficient to meet military capabilities and obligations within the North Atlantic Treaty Organization, a stance not shared or endorsed by anyone else.
When asked about this issue, Poulsen avoided directly criticizing Spain. However, he welcomed the fact that "all European countries" agree that there is a need to "spend more" on Defense, and although he is aware of "some of the comments" made, he assured that all Alliance members "will comply."
In Denmark's case, the Defense Minister pointed out that the country only allocated 1.5% of its GDP to military spending three years ago, but this year it will reach 3.2%. In other words, it has more than doubled its investment in Defense. The key to this evolution: "The invasion of Ukraine by Russia."
"We are facing new and complex threats: attacks, disinformation, cyber warfare, and a growing need for resilience in all areas. The EU has taken a step forward with significant initiatives to strengthen our defense readiness. These efforts are not only necessary, I would say they are essential," Poulsen reiterated. "Advancing these initiatives and also contributing to our common efforts to establish a clear direction on where we are heading in the EU and, of course, in Europe, will be a key objective of the Danish presidency," the Vice Prime Minister concluded.
No "imminent threat" in Greenland
Poulsen also mentioned Greenland and U.S. President Donald Trump's desire to acquire this territory. "I do not see an imminent threat against the Kingdom of Denmark. I also believe it is important to emphasize that we have received great support from all European countries," he explained.
He added: "We have also been very clear and firm in stating that the future of Greenland will be decided by the people of Greenland, with respect to the Kingdom of Denmark as well."