The UK Prime Minister, Sir Keir Starmer, has welcomed Denmark’s decision to bolster its military presence in the Arctic, hailing the move as vital in safeguarding security in the High North. The announcement comes amid renewed geopolitical tensions surrounding Greenland, an autonomous Danish territory, following controversial remarks from former US President Donald Trump about acquiring the island.
Sir Keir hosted Danish Prime Minister Mette Frederiksen at Downing Street on Tuesday evening for a working dinner, during which the two leaders discussed defence, Arctic security, and European cooperation. While Number 10 made no direct mention of Greenland in its official readout of the meeting, it emphasised the commitment of both countries to strengthening joint security measures in the Arctic region.
A Downing Street spokesperson confirmed that Sir Keir had “paid tribute” to Denmark’s strategic role in defending the High North and welcomed the country’s new military package aimed at countering “hostile activity” in the Arctic. Denmark recently announced a £1.6 billion investment in security for the region, responding to growing concerns over foreign interest in Greenland and the wider Arctic.
Speaking after the meeting, Ms Frederiksen reaffirmed the strong partnership between the UK and Denmark, stating, “We have agreed to work closely together on ensuring the security of the Arctic region, including Greenland and the High North.” She described Britain as “one of our closest and most important allies” and praised Sir Keir as a “close friend and colleague.”
Greenland dispute and UK’s stance
Ms Frederiksen has been seeking diplomatic support from European allies in the wake of Mr Trump’s renewed interest in Greenland. The former US President has previously suggested that America should acquire the island, an idea that Denmark has repeatedly dismissed. Despite this, Number 10 has remained cautious in its approach, avoiding any explicit statement on whether the UK would back Denmark or the US in the dispute.
When pressed on whether she had received assurances from Britain regarding Greenland, Ms Frederiksen said, “We had a very good meeting. The UK is one of our biggest and most important allies. We agreed tonight to work closely on Arctic security and deterrence.”
While Downing Street refrained from taking a direct position on the matter, the UK’s emphasis on Arctic security suggests that it remains committed to maintaining stability in the region. A Number 10 spokesperson stated, “Both leaders agreed to step up joint cooperation to address threats in the Arctic and High North, working with allies through NATO and JEF Partners.”
Strengthening defence and European ties
In addition to Arctic security, the two leaders discussed broader European defence cooperation, underlining the need to strengthen NATO’s presence and enhance joint military capabilities. The UK and Denmark, both key members of NATO, have pledged to deepen their strategic partnership, particularly in response to emerging security threats across Europe.
Sir Keir also welcomed Denmark’s forthcoming presidency of the Council of the European Union, expressing optimism about working closely with Ms Frederiksen on shared priorities, including migration, trade, and defence. Their discussion also touched upon the war in Ukraine, with the Prime Minister commending Denmark’s role in supporting Kyiv.
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A Downing Street statement noted, “The Prime Minister welcomed Denmark’s reflections on the battlefield situation in Ukraine. Both leaders underscored the importance of long-term support for Ukrainian forces to ensure their strongest possible position.”
A delicate balancing act
The meeting underscored the UK’s diplomatic balancing act as it seeks to maintain strong transatlantic ties while deepening its security relationship with European allies. While Britain has historically aligned itself closely with the US on geopolitical matters, the growing focus on European defence cooperation signals a shift in priorities under Sir Keir’s leadership.
By reinforcing military collaboration with Denmark, the UK is reaffirming its commitment to Arctic security at a time of heightened geopolitical tensions. However, the government’s careful wording on the Greenland dispute suggests that it remains wary of alienating either side in the ongoing debate.
With Denmark investing heavily in Arctic defence and European leaders rallying behind its sovereignty claims, the UK’s next steps in the region will be closely watched. Sir Keir’s cautious but supportive approach signals Britain’s intent to play a key role in safeguarding security in the High North while maintaining diplomatic equilibrium in its global alliances.
