U.S. President Donald Trump announced this week that discussions with NATO Secretary General Mark Rutte had established a "framework" for future agreements regarding Greenland, while confirming the suspension of planned tariffs on eight European countries. The remarks, made on January 21, 2026, were followed by Trump's assertion that the White House seeks "total access" to Greenland under a deal with no expiration date.
Danish Prime Minister Mette Frederiksen responded firmly on January 22, welcoming dialogue but clarifying that NATO lacks authority to negotiate on behalf of Denmark or Greenland. "Sovereignty is not negotiable," she stated, emphasizing that Greenland's future rests solely with its residents. Frederiksen added that while Denmark remains open to discussions on security and economic cooperation, territorial sovereignty remains inviolable.
The developments highlight growing international interest in Greenland's strategic Arctic location and untapped mineral resources. Analysts suggest the U.S. aims to counterbalance growing Chinese and Russian investments in the region, though Frederiksen stressed any agreements must align with Greenland’s self-governance framework established in 2009.
