U.S. President Donald Trump announced on Wednesday he would not impose tariffs tied to Greenland, reversing earlier threats and signaling progress toward a strategic agreement involving the Arctic territory. The move follows discussions with NATO Secretary General Mark Rutte, which Trump described as "very productive" in a Truth Social post. While details remain undisclosed, the president claimed the framework would benefit both the U.S. and NATO allies if finalized.
Trump also revealed ongoing negotiations about the Golden Dome, a proposed missile defense system linked to Greenland's strategic location. U.S. Vice President JD Vance, Secretary of State Marco Rubio, and Special Envoy Steve Witkoff will lead talks, reporting directly to the president. The announcement comes amid heightened tensions over Greenland’s mineral resources and geopolitical significance.
Greenlandic residents expressed skepticism, with technician Mickel Nielsen calling Trump’s claims "a lie" in an interview with AFP. Aaja Chenmitz, a Greenlandic MP, emphasized that "NATO has absolutely no right to negotiate anything without us," criticizing external influence over the island’s affairs. Local media reported Greenland’s government had distributed emergency preparedness guides urging households to stockpile essentials, reflecting unease over the situation.
Danish Foreign Minister Lars Lokke Rasmussen confirmed dialogue with Trump but withheld specifics. Rutte separately told Fox News that Greenland’s sovereignty status was not discussed during his talks with the U.S. president earlier in the day.
