Trump Has a Deal to Build US Military Presence in Greenland While Leaving Island in Denmark’s Hands

President Donald Trump announced on Friday a deal with Denmark to expand the U.S. military presence in Greenland while retaining the Arctic territory under Danish control. The agreement, which addresses Trump's security concerns about the strategic island, will give the U.S. permanent control over security and other needs in Greenland.

The deal is set to be signed by the governments of the U.S., Denmark, and Greenland during the United Nations General Assembly next week, pending parliamentary approval by the Danish and Greenland governments.

Trump had been threatening to take Greenland by force from Denmark, a NATO ally, despite the island being crucial to U.S. security. The deal comes after months of private negotiations between officials from the U.S., Greenland, and Denmark. The agreement bans non-NATO bases in Greenland, restricts potential adversaries from making investments in the territory, and guarantees that China and Russia cannot establish a base in Greenland.

Secretary of State Marco Rubio hailed the deal as a "historic" and "huge win" for the U.S., stating that Greenland will remain part of North America's strategic defense area and protect against any adversary. However, the U.S. has historically maintained a military presence in Greenland, with the Pituffik Space Base being a key installation. The agreement aims to resolve tensions within the NATO alliance and among European allies, who viewed Trump's demands as an attack on Danish sovereignty.