The United States, Denmark and Greenland have reached agreement on expanding US military access to Greenland.
US President Donald Trump announced the agreement on Friday. He said the deal would strengthen security around the Arctic island.
Trump said the arrangement would allow Washington to expand its military presence in Greenland. It would also restrict rival powers from establishing bases there.
The agreement would give the United States permanent access, basing and overflight rights, according to a US official. The arrangement would also limit sensitive investments by non-NATO countries.
Trump said the agreement would remain in effect indefinitely. He also said Washington would retain the ability to take measures needed for Greenland’s security.
However, the agreement does not transfer Greenland’s sovereignty to the United States. Greenland remains an autonomous territory within the Kingdom of Denmark.
The latest development falls short of Trump’s earlier ambition to bring Greenland under US control. Reuters had reported earlier that Washington and Copenhagen were nearing an agreement.
The United States already has broad military access to Greenland. A 1951 defence agreement with Denmark provides extensive rights for US forces.
Greenland also hosts a US Space Force base in its remote northwest. Trump said Washington would soon expand its military presence on the island.
The Danish prime minister’s office said the agreement would strengthen security. It specifically highlighted security in the North Atlantic and Arctic regions.
Greenland Prime Minister Jens-Frederik Nielsen also welcomed the arrangement. He said it recognized Greenland’s interests and its role in international cooperation.
Extent of agreement remains unclear
Several details about the agreement remain unclear. These include whether the United States will build new military bases in Greenland.
Trump’s announcement did not provide detailed information about possible new facilities. The full scope of the arrangement has also drawn attention.
A US State Department official provided additional details about the agreement. The official said non-NATO countries would be prevented from building bases in Greenland.
Only the United States and its allies would be allowed to make certain sensitive investments. The official also said US access rights would remain permanent.
The arrangement would reportedly continue even if Greenland becomes independent. Greenland has long had political movements supporting greater autonomy and independence.
The agreement has therefore attracted attention in Greenland. Residents have previously expressed concerns about attempts to increase foreign control.
US Secretary of State Marco Rubio said the deal addressed Washington’s security concerns. He said Greenland would remain part of North America’s strategic defence area.
The United States, Denmark and Greenland now face the task of clarifying the agreement’s implementation. Further details could determine how the new security arrangement operates.
The three parties were able to reach agreement without transferring Greenland’s sovereignty. The deal instead focuses on military access and limiting rival powers.
The arrangement marks a significant development in Arctic security cooperation. Its practical impact will depend on the terms and implementation of the agreement.
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