Washington, United States. Donald Trump pulled back from weeks of threats against Greenland on Wednesday, announcing a vague framework deal after markets plunged and European leaders pushed back against his demands for the Arctic territory.
Trump’s comments and shift in stance
Trump told business leaders at the World Economic Forum he wanted Greenland, including “right, title and ownership,” but dropped his threats of military action. Hours later, he announced on social media a framework for a future deal and scrapped tariff threats against eight European countries. Speaking to CNBC after markets closed, he described it as a “concept of a deal.”
Reactions from Denmark, Italy and NATO
Danish Foreign Minister Lars Løkke Rasmussen welcomed the shift, saying the day ended better than it started, and added that officials should address US Arctic security concerns while respecting Denmark’s red lines. Italian Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni also welcomed the move.
NATO chief Mark Rutte, who negotiated Wednesday’s deal, said significant work remained. Asked by Fox News whether Greenland would stay in the Kingdom of Denmark under the deal, Rutte said the issue had not come up and provided few details. A NATO spokesperson later said Rutte never proposed any compromise on Greenland’s sovereignty.
Greenland’s role and reported outlines
Trump provided few specifics but said talks continue on a US missile defence shield partly based in Greenland. Danish MP Sascha Faxe criticised Greenland’s exclusion from the talks, telling Sky News there could not be a deal without Greenland at the table.
Media reports said a possible compromise could give the US sovereignty over small pockets where military bases sit, similar to UK bases in Cyprus, according to the Telegraph citing unnamed officials. The United States already has extensive access under agreements dating back decades, with options to expand by building bases and conducting military operations.
What role should Greenland have in any future negotiations over security and sovereignty?
