The United States, Denmark, and Greenland have formalized a trilateral agreement to bolster security cooperation in the Arctic and North Atlantic regions. Signed during the United Nations General Assembly in New York, this accord permits the U.S. to enhance its military presence in Greenland without transferring territorial control from Denmark.
Under the agreement, the U.S. is authorized to establish new defense areas at Narsarsuaq and Mestersvig and to develop a “Golden Dome” missile defense system. The pact amends the 1951 U.S.-Denmark defense agreement, expanding access for U.S. aircraft and vessels across Greenland’s territories and waters. Importantly, it restricts non-NATO countries from establishing military bases on the island and imposes limitations on foreign investments in critical sectors.
Greenland, a self-governing territory within the Kingdom of Denmark, retains its sovereignty and right to self-determination under the terms of the agreement. The deal, which requires ratification by Denmark and Greenland’s parliaments, comes after U.S. President Donald Trump’s previous interest in acquiring Greenland for strategic purposes, which had led to heightened tensions.
The island’s strategic location between North America and Europe and its abundant mineral and energy resources make it a significant geopolitical asset. The U.S. already operates the Pituffik Space Base in northwest Greenland, and this new agreement marks the most substantial expansion of American military infrastructure on the island since the Cold War.