Denmark has unveiled plans to bolster its military presence in the Arctic amid rising concerns over the US interest in acquiring Greenland, a Danish-owned territory.

Danish Defence Minister Troels Lund Poulsen announced late yesterday that the government will allocate 2 billion dollars to boost the defence of Greenland, Arctic Sea and Northern Atlantic. The plan will include deployment of three new Arctic naval vessels and two long-range drones, increased surveillance and crisis training for the residents. The Defence Minister said in a press conference that these preparations are just the initial phase, further plans are expected to be finalised by summer.

When questioned about whether these measures would calm down US President Donald Trump’s interest in Greenland, the Minister refrained from a direct response, underlining the importance of cooperation with NATO allies, including Canada, the US and Norway. President Trump has recently reiterated the US interest in Greenland, which remains an autonomous area under Danish sovereignty.