U.S., Denmark and Greenland sign security pact expanding American military access
The three governments approved a new agreement that grants the United States broad rights to operate in Greenland’s airspace and to expand existing bases, while affirming Danish sovereignty.
Washington, Denmark and Greenland signed a security agreement on Tuesday during the United Nations General Assembly, giving the United States expanded access to Greenland’s airspace and territory. The pact, which has no expiration date, reaffirms Greenland’s status as part of the Kingdom of Denmark but permits the U.S. to enlarge the Pituffik Space Base and to establish additional installations at Narsarsuaq and Mestersvig, locations roughly 950 miles apart. Any of the three parties may propose new "defense areas" subject to mutual approval.
The agreement also bars non-NATO countries from setting up bases in Greenland without consent and tightens screening of foreign investment from nations outside NATO and the European Union, a measure aimed at limiting influence from China and Russia. The provisions remain in effect even if Greenland were to pursue independence.
"We're going to have a tremendous relationship, a secure relationship, and we look forward to it," President Trump said after the signing.
"The world has changed a great deal since 1951," Greenland Premier Jens-Frederik Nielsen said, adding that Greenlanders recognize long-term security threats.
"This agreement should put to rest any doubt today and in the future about where Greenland's loyalty lies," Nielsen added.
Danish Prime Minister Mette Frederiksen said the deal respects the territorial integrity of Denmark and Greenland's right to self-determination.
The leaders described the pact as a response to a shifting Arctic security environment, noting that the United States already operates the Pituffik Space Base on the island.