Trump announces agreement giving US 'permanent control' over Greenland security

On September 18, 2026, President Donald Trump announced a major agreement that grants the United States permanent control over Greenland's security. In a post on Truth Social, Trump stated that the deal would have no financial impact on US taxpayers and called it "very important, historic, and special." At his direction, officials worked with Denmark and Greenland to ensure the US would have complete authority to secure and defend Greenland and the United States.

The agreement means that no adversary can establish a base, maintain a military presence, or make sensitive investments in Greenland without explicit US approval. The Danish government announced that the US and Denmark will sign the agreement during the UN General Assembly. Greenland's government, led by Jens-Frederik Nielsen, expressed satisfaction that the agreement strengthens the security of Greenland, Denmark, the United States, and the Western Alliance.

Once signed, the deal must go through parliamentary procedures. Trump emphasized that this marks the first time in over 100 years that a president could address the strategic importance of Greenland, which he believes is vital to US national security and contains valuable natural resources. His push for Greenland control has faced criticism from European allies, and in January, he indicated he would not rule out military action to acquire the island.