The United States, Denmark, and Greenland have signed a new security agreement. This deal was reached to enhance the U.S. military and security presence on Greenland, a Danish territory in the North Atlantic. This marks the resolution of longstanding tensions regarding the island’s future.
The agreement was signed during the United Nations General Assembly in New York. U.S. President Donald Trump, Greenland Premier Jens-Frederik Nielsen, and Danish Prime Minister Mette Frederiksen participated in the signing. The White House released the agreement text shortly afterward.
The accord reaffirms Greenland’s sovereignty, recognizing it as part of the Kingdom of Denmark. It grants the U.S. broad access to the island’s airspace and territory, allowing an expansion of the Pituffik Space Base. This installation serves as a key early-warning system for missile detection in the region. Additional American military bases may be established at Narsarsuaq and Mestersvig, two sites nearly 950 miles apart.
Any of the three signatories can propose new “defense areas” if necessary, with approval required from the others. The agreement, having no expiration date, restricts non-NATO countries from setting up bases on Greenland unless all parties agree. It also increases scrutiny on foreign investments from non-NATO and non-European Union countries, aiming to limit Chinese and Russian influence.
Leaders from Greenland and Denmark highlighted the shifting security dynamics in the Arctic as a major factor in the agreement. Previously, President Trump had shown interest in acquiring Greenland, leading to unease among NATO allies.
“We’re going to have a tremendous relationship, a secure relationship, and we look forward to it,” said President Trump. “We’ll be working very hard and very much in conjunction with each other, and it’s just a real honor to be here.”
Nielsen noted changes since a prior security agreement drafted in 1951 and acknowledged long-term security threats addressed by the new deal.
“This agreement should put to rest any doubt today and in the future about where Greenland’s loyalty lies,” Nielsen stated.
Frederiksen emphasized the deal’s respect for the territorial integrity of the Kingdom of Denmark and Greenland’s right to self-determination.
In his speech at the United Nations, President Trump remarked that two new military bases can be constructed under this accord. The United States already maintains an active military presence in Greenland.
“This agreement, made with the Kingdom of Denmark and the Greenland people, gives the United States permanent control over security and all other needs on that territory,” President Trump expressed. “No U.S. adversary will ever be permitted to establish a military presence in Greenland anymore, or make sensitive investments there without our express written approval.”
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