US, Denmark reach deal over Greenland's security, Trump says

In a significant move, US President Donald Trump announced on Friday that the United States had reached a deal with Denmark to assume permanent control over Greenland's security. This agreement effectively bars Russia and China from establishing bases in the Arctic territory. Trump had previously expressed concerns about the strategic importance of Greenland from a US perspective, leading to tension with Denmark, a NATO ally.

Both Denmark and Greenland welcomed the deal and confirmed they would sign it at the UN General Assembly in New York next week.

Trump announced the deal on his social media platform, stating that the United States now has "permanent control over security, and all other needs, in Greenland." This means that no adversary would be able to set up a military presence or conduct sensitive investments in Greenland without the express written approval of the US. Trump called the agreement an "Infinite Life Agreement," emphasizing that there is no expiration date.

The US State Department confirmed that the deal prevents Russia and China from having a base in Greenland or sending troops there. It also includes mechanisms to prevent investment in sensitive sectors by these nations. A State Department official stated that the agreement guarantees these restrictions would be enforced.

This deal comes amid a strategic competition for supremacy in the warming Arctic region, with Trump warning repeatedly about Russia and China's attempts to establish a foothold in Greenland. The State Department's official confirmed that the agreement ensures these countries cannot have a military presence in the territory.

The deal was reportedly reached previously at a summit with NATO Secretary General Mark Rutte in Davos, although the details of the earlier agreement were vague. Danish Prime Minister Mette Frederiksen expressed optimism about resolving the dispute with the US and Greenland since January. She welcomed the prospect of a good agreement for Greenland, Denmark, and the United States, stating it was beneficial for NATO and Europe.

However, the specifics of the deal, including how it would work, were not detailed by Trump. The agreement's connection to or differences from the Rutte deal remain unclear. Reports suggest that the United States aims to open three new military bases in southern Greenland, in addition to the existing Pituffik base in the north. The 1951 defense pact, updated in 2004, already allows the US to increase troop deployments and military installations in Greenland with prior notification to Denmark and Greenland.

The deal aims to address the security concerns that arose during the height of the crisis, where Trump had threatened to use force to seize Greenland if necessary. Since then, tensions have eased somewhat, and NATO has launched a new mission to bolster security in the Arctic region.