Trump Pledges to Open New Arctic Military Bases as He Signs Greenland Deal
NEW YORK - President Donald Trump signed a security deal with the leaders of Greenland and Denmark on Tuesday, granting the United States wide-ranging powers to secure and defend the Arctic island as it remains Danish territory.
On Tuesday, President Donald Trump signed a security agreement with the leaders of Greenland and Denmark, granting the United States broad authority to secure and defend the Arctic island, despite Greenland being Danish territory. The ceremony took place during the United Nations General Assembly in New York, following months of tension between Washington and European allies over the strategic island.
In the agreement, the U.S. military gains the right to establish a Golden Dome defense system, as well as two new defense areas in Narsarsuaq and Mestersvig. The agreement also prohibits investors from outside NATO or the European Union from operating in Greenland unless approved by all three countries. President Trump, while signing the deal with Danish Prime Minister Mette Frederiksen and Greenlandic Prime Minister Jens-Frederik Nielsen, stated it would benefit Europe and the United States, and enhance the NATO alliance.
The deal supersedes the 1951 treaty, which outlines Greenland's sovereignty, and can only be amended with mutual consent, even if Greenland achieves independence from Denmark. The agreement's text reveals no expiration date, and it must be ratified by parliaments in Denmark and Greenland before becoming legally binding.
European leaders largely welcomed the agreement, with NATO Secretary General Mark Rutte praising it as a boost to collective security and a safer future for the bloc. European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen highlighted the strategic importance of the Arctic region and the need for collaboration in addressing challenges.
Historically, the U.S. has maintained a military presence in Greenland since World War II, with installations shrinking from 17 in the Cold War to just one, Pituffik Space Base, currently. Trump's interest in Greenland dates back to his first term, when he was told of its significant mineral wealth by cosmetics heir Ronald Lauder.
Despite some speculation about a potential U.S. invasion, quieter discussions between U.S., Greenlandic, and Danish officials have led to this agreement, which does not require congressional approval but must still be ratified by both Denmark and Greenland's parliaments.
Written by urgent.news from The Japan News by The Yomiuri Shimbun's reporting — not their text. Machine-written — may contain errors; check the original before relying on it.
