COPENHAGEN,— Denmark and Greenland said Saturday that a planned security deal with the United States would not affect Greenland’s sovereignty.
The statement came after US President Donald Trump said the deal would give Washington “permanent control” over security on the Arctic island. The full scope of the agreement remains unclear.
US to Expand Military Presence
The United States, Denmark and Greenland said Friday that they had reached an agreement on a larger US military presence in Greenland.
The deal would also prevent US rivals from building military bases on the island. However, officials have not released the full terms.
Questions remain about the size of the US military presence. There are also questions about foreign policy and control of natural resources.
The agreement is expected to be signed during the United Nations General Assembly in New York next week.
Danish Foreign Minister Lars Lokke Rasmussen said the deal could strengthen security in the Arctic and North Atlantic. He added that it would respect Denmark’s key conditions.
Greenland Says Sovereignty Will Remain
Greenland has repeatedly said that its sovereignty is not for negotiation.
Prime Minister Jens-Frederik Nielsen said he welcomed the proposed agreement. He said it recognizes the sovereignty and territorial integrity of the Danish Kingdom.
Nielsen also said the deal recognizes the Greenlandic people’s right to self-determination.
Trump gave a different description of the agreement.
In a Truth Social post, he said the United States would have permanent control over security and other needs in Greenland. He also said US rivals would not be allowed to establish bases or military forces on the island without US approval.
Trump further said foreign rivals would need US approval for sensitive investments in Greenland.
Deal Follows Months of Tension
The agreement follows months of tension between Washington, Copenhagen and Nuuk.
Trump had repeatedly expressed interest in taking control of Greenland. His statements created concern in Denmark and Greenland and caused tensions within NATO.
The new agreement seeks to increase US security access while keeping Greenland under Danish sovereignty.
NATO welcomed the agreement on Saturday. A NATO spokesperson said it could support security, stability and cooperation in the Arctic region.
The final legal text will be important in determining how much authority Washington receives and how the new security arrangements will work.
