easing tensions following his contentious push to acquire the autonomous Danish territory. Speaking at a signing ceremony during the UN General Assembly in New York, Trump called it "a long-term, fantastic relationship" and "tremendous for Europe and for the United States." Under the 10-page pact, the United States will establish two new military bases: one in Narsarsuaq in southern Greenland and another in Mestersvig in the east, supplementing the existing Pituffik base in the north. The agreement reaffirms "the sovereignty and territorial integrity of the Kingdom of Denmark" while recognizing Greenland's "right to self-determination."

Since returning to office in January 2025, Trump repeatedly argued the US needed control of Greenland for security reasons—alarming NATO ally Denmark and drawing pushback from the alliance. Greenland sits on the shortest missile route between Russia and the United States, making it strategically vital to Trump's proposed "Golden Dome" defense shield. It also holds untapped rare earth deposits and could become key as melting polar ice opens new shipping lanes. Danish Prime Minister Mette Frederiksen said Denmark "stands in a better place than we did yesterday," expressing hope the deal brings "more peace of mind" to Greenland after a difficult period. Greenland's Prime Minister Jens-Frederik Nielsen said the agreement reflects a shared understanding of responsibility, though he noted that "back home we need to rebuild trust." The deal blocks non-NATO, non-EU countries—aimed at China and Russia—from strategic sectors in Greenland, preventing control or significant influence over sensitive areas. Some skepticism persists: Copenhagen barber Gavin Sharpe told AFP he views it as essentially the same arrangement as before, framed for US voters. EU chief Antonio Costa welcomed the deal as "a positive step for transatlantic cooperation and Arctic security," with German Chancellor Friedrich Merz also expressing support. The agreement requires Greenland to abide by its terms even if it gains independence from Denmark, and to remain in or join NATO "if necessary." A 1951 defense pact already permitted expanded US military presence with advance notice to Denmark and Greenland. (Bssnews)