DAVOS: US President Donald Trump has indicated that the United States is exploring a possible agreement on Greenland following discussions with NATO, while stepping back from earlier plans to impose tariffs on European allies who opposed his proposal to acquire the island.
Trump described a “very productive meeting” with NATO leadership, which he said resulted in a preliminary “framework” for a potential deal concerning Greenland and the Arctic, though he provided few specifics. NATO also called the talks productive, emphasizing that any discussions would focus on Arctic security.
Previously, Trump told the World Economic Forum in Davos that he did not intend to use military force but wanted negotiations regarding ownership of the territory. On his social media platform Truth Social, he stated: “We have formed the framework of a future deal with respect to Greenland and, in fact, the entire Arctic Region. This solution, if consummated, will be a great one for the United States of America, and all NATO Nations.”
Trump did not clarify whether the plan would grant the US ownership of the autonomous Danish territory but suggested it could involve mineral rights. He added that further details would emerge as talks progressed, with Secretary of State Marco Rubio and Special Envoy Steve Witkoff reporting directly to him.
Danish Foreign Minister Lars Løkke Rasmussen commented positively, saying the day had ended on a better note and called for discussions that addressed US security concerns while respecting Denmark’s “red lines.”
Later, Trump told CNBC that the potential agreement could be permanent and might include mineral rights and the proposed Golden Dome missile defense system, which he envisions as a comprehensive shield across land, sea, and space. In addition to its strategic location, Greenland is noted for its large, largely untapped reserves of rare earth minerals, essential for technologies like smartphones and electric vehicles.
(Inputs from BBC)
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