Denmark and Greenland affirmed on Saturday that any pact with the United States would uphold Greenland’s sovereignty, following President Donald Trump’s assertion that the deal would grant Washington “permanent control” over the Arctic island’s security, creating ambiguity regarding its exact implications.
Late on Friday, the U.S., Denmark, and Greenland announced they had reached an agreement for the U.S. to establish a substantial military presence in Greenland, while preventing American adversaries from constructing their own bases on the island.
Crucial specifics of the agreement have not been disclosed, such as the extent of U.S. military deployment in the self-governing Danish territory and whether any formal authority over foreign policy and resources would be relinquished to Washington.
Denmark and Greenland expressed optimism that a forthcoming deal, anticipated to be finalized during the United Nations General Assembly next week, would resolve the months-long uncertainty sparked by Trump’s earlier threats to take control of Greenland. Parliamentary approval is still pending from the governments of Denmark and Greenland to enforce the agreement.
Danish Foreign Affairs Minister Lars Løkke Rasmussen shared in a statement on Facebook on Saturday, “Next week could be a positive milestone for Greenland, Denmark, and the United States.” He hoped for a binding agreement that enhances security in the Arctic and the North Atlantic, reinforcing shared security within NATO and Europe while respecting Denmark’s sovereignty.
Both Denmark and Greenland have consistently emphasized the importance of Washington honoring the sovereignty of the Danish kingdom and recognizing that Greenland is not up for sale.
Trump stated on his Truth Social platform late Friday that the agreement would afford the United States enduring control over security and other necessities in Greenland to ensure the island’s defense and security, solidifying Washington’s authority. He emphasized that no adversaries would be permitted to establish bases or military presence in Greenland or make strategic investments there without explicit written approval from the U.S.
NATO voiced its approval of the agreement, welcoming its potential to advance security, stability, and cooperation in the crucial region. The diplomatic tensions ignited by Trump’s threats earlier this year led to strained relations within NATO, prompting Denmark and Greenland to engage in negotiations to alleviate the pressure.
Public opinion in Copenhagen varied, with some residents expressing support for the agreement and others voicing skepticism and concern over the increased U.S. presence in the Danish Kingdom, particularly under Trump’s leadership.