The authorities of the United States and Denmark are concerned about the increasing military presence of Russia in the Arctic and consider it important to protect key infrastructure in the region, the State Department reported on Sunday in connection with the trip of US Secretary of State Antony Blinken to the kingdom.

The US welcomed the recent decision of the Kingdom of Denmark to invest $ 245 million in the defense of the North Atlantic region and the Arctic, which underlines a mutual commitment to maintaining the stability and security of the Arctic. The United States and the Kingdom of Denmark share concerns about an increased Russian military presence in the Arctic. 

The United States represents an Arctic region free of conflict, where states act responsibly and economic development and investment is made in a sustainable, transparent manner, with respect for the environment, interests, and culture of indigenous peoples, the State Department noted.

Blinken will visit Denmark on May 16-17 and 20, 2021, and will hold talks with the Prime Minister of the Kingdom Mette Frederiksen, Foreign Minister Jeppe Kofod.