Denmark hails 'binding' Greenland deal with Trump

Denmark welcomed a "binding" agreement announced by US President Donald Trump, granting Washington permanent control over Greenland's security. The deal, which bars Russian and Chinese bases from the Arctic territory, was welcomed by Denmark and Greenland, both of which are expected to sign it during the UN General Assembly in New York.

Danish Foreign Minister Lars Lokke Rasmussen stated that the agreement would replace a long period of uncertainty and strengthen security in the Arctic and North Atlantic. Danish Prime Minister Mette Frederiksen emphasized that the agreement respects Denmark's sovereignty and the Greenlandic people's right to self-determination.

Greenland Prime Minister Jens-Frederik Nielsen highlighted that the deal recognizes Greenland's interests and strengthens its security. The residents of Greenland's capital, Nuuk, expressed mixed feelings about the agreement, with some expressing unease about the US and President Trump's involvement. While President Trump hailed the deal as an "Infinite Life" Agreement, with no end, Danish commentators suggested that he had not gained much from the deal.

Under a 1951 defense pact updated in 2004, the US already had the ability to increase its military presence in Greenland, provided prior notice was given to Denmark and Greenland. Trump's deal, however, was expected to allow the US to build new military bases in southern Greenland, potentially involving NATO allies and raising concerns about EU and NATO positions.