The United States, Denmark and Greenland have reached an agreement aimed at strengthening security in the Arctic and North Atlantic, after months of diplomatic tensions over President Donald Trump’s demands for greater US control over Greenland.
Trump said the agreement would give Washington “permanent control” over Greenland’s security and allow the United States to do what is necessary to defend the territory and its own interests. However, Denmark and Greenland said the arrangement respects the Kingdom of Denmark’s sovereignty and Greenlanders’ right to self-determination.
The full text of the agreement has not been released, leaving important details about its scope unclear. The three governments expect to sign it during the United Nations General Assembly next week, after which it would still require the necessary parliamentary procedures before taking effect.
Danish Prime Minister Mette Frederiksen said the agreement would strengthen security in the Arctic and North Atlantic while preserving the sovereignty and territorial integrity of the Kingdom of Denmark.
Greenland’s Prime Minister Jens-Frederik Nielsen also welcomed the proposed deal, saying it recognises Greenland’s interests and its place in international cooperation.
NATO welcomed the agreement, saying it could advance security, stability and cooperation in the strategically important Arctic region.
Exact Changes Uncertain
Trump has previously threatened to acquire or take control of Greenland, citing its strategic location, mineral resources and importance to US national security. Those demands created tensions with Denmark, a fellow NATO member, and prompted repeated assurances from Copenhagen and Nuuk that Greenland was not for sale.
Under the proposed agreement, the United States would receive expanded and long-term military access to Greenland. A US State Department official cited by Reuters said the arrangement would provide permanent access, basing and overflight rights and continue even if Greenland eventually becomes independent. The agreement would also restrict non-NATO countries from establishing military bases or making certain sensitive investments on the island.
The United States already has extensive military rights in Greenland under a 1951 defence agreement with Denmark and a 2004 amendment. The Pituffik Space Base in north-western Greenland is used for missile warning, missile defence and space surveillance. The exact changes created by the new agreement remain uncertain until its text is published.
