New York, 23 September 2026
The agreement expands US military access and sets rules for bases and sensitive investment in Greenland. Leaders across Europe have welcomed it. What does the text say about Greenlandic self-determination and decisions on future US facilities?
10 takeaways
- Greenland, Denmark and the United States signed an agreement in New York amending their 1951 defence arrangements. It has no end date, but it does not take effect on signature alone: entry into force requires a diplomatic note confirming completion of the necessary parliamentary procedures in Denmark and Greenland. Amendments would require mutual consent. The text also reaffirms Danish sovereignty and recognises the Greenlandic people’s right to self-determination.
- Danish Prime Minister Mette Frederiksen and Greenlandic Prime Minister Jens-Frederik Nielsen presented the agreement as a step in shared security. NATO Secretary General Mark Rutte said stronger security in the Arctic and North Atlantic matters to Europe and North America alike. Their statements welcome closer cooperation, while the agreement’s provisions set out the rights and procedures through which that cooperation would operate.
- European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen welcomed the agreement and said the EU would continue working closely with Denmark, Greenland and international partners. Leaders or ministers in Germany, Norway, Italy, Estonia and Sweden also voiced support, chiefly citing Arctic stability, deterrence and cooperation among allies. Those reactions indicate broad support among the officials quoted by the White House, rather than a position taken by every European government.
- The agreement supports a larger NATO role in the Arctic through planning, presence, exercises and joint intelligence gathering. It also commits Denmark to continue strengthening its regional defence posture across land, sea, air and space. Its stated purpose is to help the parties defend Greenland, the North Atlantic Treaty area and the American continent, while respecting Greenlandic society and providing tangible benefits to its people.
- The United States would be permitted to modernise and expand activities at Pituffik Space Base. The text also provides for an additional defence area at Narsarsuaq and Mestersvig, subject to technical details and arrangements agreed by the parties. Further defence areas can be proposed, but their location, scope and mitigating measures must go through consultation and mutual agreement, with unresolved matters escalated to senior officials.
- US forces would receive broad rights to move between defence areas by land, air and sea, including through Greenland’s territorial waters. The text also covers aircraft overflight and landing, and undersea access for US public vessels, subject to its stated terms. These rights must be exercised with the greatest possible respect for Greenlandic society and activities such as hunting and fishing; their implementation will be reviewed regularly by a joint committee.
- Greenland and Denmark would review requests for unmanned military installations outside defence areas through accelerated approval procedures. Each request must describe the proposed site, activities and mitigating measures. The agreement also directs the United States to award contracts connected with defence areas to Greenlandic suppliers to the maximum extent feasible, and calls for existing contracting arrangements to be updated to support that aim.
- States outside NATO could not establish their own manned or unmanned military installations, or maintain a persistent military presence, in Greenland unless the parties agree otherwise. Separate provisions address investment in sensitive activities, including critical infrastructure and resource extraction. Their restrictions depend on an investor’s state affiliation and a potential security or public order threat, with screening led by Greenland in cooperation with Denmark.
- The agreement addresses a possible future in which Greenland becomes independent. It says Denmark and Greenland would together ensure that an independent Greenland seeks or retains NATO membership and assumes the relevant defence obligations from the date of independence. That clause sits alongside the text’s recognition of Greenlandic self-determination and its reference to the independence procedure in Greenland’s 2009 Self-Government Act.
- President Trump described the deal as giving the United States permanent control over Greenland’s security and said it would impose no cost on US taxpayers. The agreement itself specifies access rights, defence areas, consultation procedures and restrictions on certain third-state activities; it reaffirms Danish sovereignty. Its contracting and implementation provisions do not establish a total cost, so the “no cost” claim is best attributed to the US administration.
E-Summary by ChatGPT, prompted by Insight EU, based on the reports and statements below.
White House: President Trump Inks Historic Arctic Security Agreement
September 22, 2026
Today, President Donald J. Trump joined leaders of Denmark and Greenland to sign an unprecedented agreement giving the United States lasting control over security interests in Greenland. The landmark agreement — which comes at no cost to American taxpayers — forever guarantees America the ability to defend the continent, includes permanent basing rights, and bars any U.S. adversary from establishing a base, military presence, or sensitive investment without America’s approval.
The agreement is being hailed at home and around the world as a decisive victory for American security and a stronger NATO in the Arctic. Here’s what they’re saying:
President Donald J. Trump: “As I announced just days ago, the U.S. has also reached an unprecedented agreement regarding the Northern Frontier of North America — the large and strategically vital piece of land known as Greenland. This agreement… gives the United States permanent control over security and all other needs on that territory. We will have the complete ability to do what is necessary to defend the American continent.”
Danish Prime Minister Mette Frederiksen: “This day represents a milestone in our longstanding cooperation. 75 years ago, we entered into an agreement about the defense of Greenland. Today, we are signing an even bigger and better agreement — a deal that can last forever. This deal is good for the United States, it’s good for Greenland, for Denmark, for the NATO alliance, and therefore, also good for Europe. In other words, we are strengthening our common security, boosting our common deterrence, showing our adversaries who we are — and we are doing it together.”
Prime Minister of Greenland Jens-Frederik Nielsen: “We are, have been, and will remain a steadfast friend of the United States and a part of the Western alliance. Your security is our security and our security is your security. We are truly pleased with the result that strengthens our shared security and strengthens our bond as close allies. This agreement is historical.”
Danish Minister for Foreign Affairs Lars Løkke Rasmussen: “An important moment today. Greenland, Denmark and the United States have signed an agreement strengthening security in the Arctic and North Atlantic. It’s been a bumpy ride. But here we are – with a deal in hand that we can all be very satisfied with. We share a long history. And we share a responsibility for the security of our region. Today, we take another important step together – with full respect for the sovereignty and territorial integrity of the Kingdom of Denmark and the Greenlandic people’s right to self-determination. History binds us together. Our future demands that we stand together.”
NATO Secretary General Mark Rutte: “Great to see the deal signed by the United States, Denmark, and Greenland today. We know the threats we face, and greater security in the Arctic and North Atlantic is essential for Europe and North America alike. This agreement, along with NATO’s growing role in securing this vital region, enhances our collective security and supports a safer and more stable future for us all”
European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen: “I welcome today’s agreement on strengthening security in the Arctic and North Atlantic. My visit to Greenland earlier this month underscored the strategic importance of the region and the scale of the challenges. Challenges we will face together. As always, the EU will work closely with Denmark and Greenland and our international partners.”
German Chancellor Friedrich Merz: “Good news for the security of Greenland: The agreement between Denmark, Greenland, and the USA strengthens our partnership in NATO and security in the High North. Our partners can count on the support of Germany.”
Norwegian Prime Minister Jonas Gahr Støre: “I welcome the agreement between Greenland, Denmark and the USA. It is a good diplomatic solution, important for stability and security in the [Arctic].”
Italian Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni: “Well done on the agreement between the United States, Denmark, and Greenland. The Arctic is a strategic area: security is built together.”
Estonian Minister of Foreign Affairs Margus Tsahkna: “Estonia welcomes the agreement reached by Denmark, Greenland and the United States to strengthen security in the Arctic. Enhanced cooperation among NATO Allies in Greenland and the Arctic reinforces the security of the Alliance and of Europe as a whole. Close and coordinated cooperation among Allies remains the most effective way to strengthen deterrence and defence in the region.”
Swedish Minister for Foreign Affairs Maria Malmer Stenergard: “I welcome that Denmark, Greenland and the United States have reached an agreement on strengthened security in the Arctic and North-Atlantic area. Sweden remains committed to working with all our Allies to improve our common security.”
Secretary of State Marco Rubio: “This historic deal is a huge win for the United States and the American people. Thanks to President Trump’s vision and leadership, this historic agreement permanently guarantees U.S. security interests in the Arctic at zero cost to the U.S. taxpayer. Greenland will forever be part of the strategic defense area of North America and exclude any adversary from it and the surrounding area. This deal permanently and completely addresses our national security concerns in Greenland.”
U.S. Ambassador to the United Nations Mike Waltz: “History in the making at UNGA as President Trump seals his landmark deal with Denmark and Greenland ensuring American national security and defense in the Arctic region.”
U.S. Ambassador to Denmark Kenneth Howery: “Historic day for the United States, Denmark, and Greenland. A tremendous honor to join President Trump, Prime Minister Frederiksen, and Prime Minister Nielsen in New York today as they sign an agreement to ensure all three of our countries’ security for generations to come.”
U.S. Special Envoy to Greenland Jeff Landry: “This is a great day for America and for our national security interests. Well done President @realDonaldTrump and @SecRubio! With the signing of this deal, American interests in the Arctic have never been more secure. This is America First. This is promises made, promises kept!”
Former Speaker of the House Newt Gingrich: “In 1946, President Truman’s administration explored purchasing Greenland because of its importance to American defense. Eighty years later, President Trump has announced a new Arctic security agreement. The geography hasn’t changed. The strategic competition has.”
Former Deputy National Security Advisor KT McFarland: “Game changer”
Former National Security Council Chief of Staff Alex Gray: “Nearly two years ago I wrote in @WSJopinion that POTUS should actually buy #Greenland. He has now scored a remarkable victory that accomplishes those goals without the cost.”
Center for Security Policy Senior Fellow Col. Grant Newsham (ret.): “This is a big deal. This is right up there with Secretary of State Seward getting Alaska. It’s a little different because we haven’t bought the place, but it locks up or brings into the fold, really, key terrain, key geography, up on our northeast… Russia and the Chinese, in particular, they can’t get in there militarily, and they cannot get in economically.”
Washington Times Editorial Board: “Coming on the heels of his Venezuela triumph — access to the world’s largest known oil reserves — President Trump’s Greenland deal caps his status as one of history’s great dealmakers.”
Commentator Scott Jennings: “Donald Trump was right about Greenland from the beginning… and finally, we got it done. This historic agreement between the United States and Denmark gives Donald Trump everything we wanted and everything we needed as it relates to the future security of Greenland.”
Claremont Institute Senior Fellow Jeremy Carl: “This is a major win for which President Trump, Secretary Rubio and the administration are not getting nearly enough credit. It will dramatically fortify our Arctic security while permanently keeping out Russian and Chinese meddling. Denmark keeps its sovereignty and Greenland keeps its rights of self-determination– neither of which were core issues for America in any case. This is an actual win-win for all parties involved and it would not have happened without early and very visible U.S. pressure (highlighted by VP Vance’s visit) all of which were met by howls of criticism from the corporate media and foreign policy ‘experts.’”
Commentator Hugh Hewitt: “To repeat, this is an enormous deal. Keep score on who downplays it or minimizes its importance. President Trump has secured part of the gateway to the Arctic —an unqualified big win. Those that won’t admit it will also have likely damned POTUS for straining relations with Denmark and NATO over elevating the topic from the start of his second term. Now that is behind the allies, the threats are identified and excluded, access guaranteed for Golden Dome facilities and any other basing needs. Sheesh TDS is a powerful drug.”
Fox Business Network host David Asman: “For all the hullabaloo, it looks like we ended up with a good Greenland deal.”
Just the News Editor-in-Chief John Solomon: “This deal not only strengthens national security but also addresses longstanding strategic concerns in the region.”
Commentator Dan Bongino: “…a generational security deal with GREENLAND has been agreed to, the border is CLOSED, the streets are SAFER, we’re BUILDING things in America again, and Donald J. Trump is the President of the United States of America.”
Commentator David Burke: “As I learn the incredible news that Denmark has signed an agreement granting the United States military installation rights in Greenland, I can’t help smiling at the way President Trump steered this historic event. The Media & the Democrats got it all wrong AGAIN!”
NewsNation host Katie Pavlich: “Manifest Destiny continues 🇺🇸”
Commentator Glenn Beck: “If you look at the last two years, it’s clear President Trump is preparing for something big. He’s securing permanent security control over Greenland, kicked China out of the Panama Canal, and locked up 65 billion barrels of Venezuelan oil. For 25 years, China quietly bought up our backyard to gain a strategic stranglehold on our side of the globe. In just 20 months, Trump pulled the rug right out from under them. While the rest of the world fractures, Trump is building a completely self-sufficient Western Hemisphere. One where America controls its own destiny without bowing to Beijing or Tehran.”
Strategy Risks Vice President Melissa Chen: “This is a big deal… Your future as a North American depends on it. This deal constitutes a strategy of denial for China’s Arctic ambitions and Russia’s Arctic militarization, two revisionist powers that have been probing NATO’s northern edge and the GIUK gap, the gateway to the Atlantic: Donroe Doctrine FTW”
Columnist Gordon Chang: “President Trump is securing the Arctic with the historic Greenland deal.”
Judicial Watch President Tom Fitton: “Great news for our national security on Greenland from @realDonaldTrump!”
Commentator Mark Levin: “POTUS is unbelievable! He pulled it off!”
American Conservative Union Chairman Matt Schlapp: “Like the Wall he just kept pushing and now it’s a reality. Never seen anything like it.”
Martin Capital CEO Rod D. Martin: “With today’s signing of the tripartite deal between the United States, Greenland, and Denmark, Donald Trump has achieved yet another masterstroke — like the NATO commitment to increase defense spending more than two-and-a-half times, like the EU trade deal, like booting China out of Panama.”
Commentator Marc Thiessen: “Greenland problem solved!”
Sen. Jim Banks: “They said it couldn’t be done, but @POTUS just proved the foreign policy establishment wrong again. This historic agreement with Denmark ensures the United States and our allies will be able to secure Greenland and the High North against our adversaries for generations to come.”
Sen. Bill Hagerty: “It’s hard to overstate the monumental impact of @POTUS ‘s historic agreement with the Kingdom of Denmark and Greenland. Many thought an achievement of this magnitude was impossible, but @realDonaldTrump has proven once again that he knows the art of the deal. America is the leader of the free world, and this accomplishment will forever stand as a pivotal moment for security at home and abroad.”
Sen. Mike Lee: “We’ve got Greenland! This is what winning looks like.”
Sen. Dave McCormick: “Greenland is vital to America’s national security. @POTUS ‘s deal gives America permanent military access while Greenland remains under Danish sovereignty. This terrific development will play a pivotal role in American’s Golden Dome Defense and strengthen deterrence as China and Russia expand their presence in the Arctic.”
Sen. Lisa Murkowski: “I’m encouraged that our nations have reached a breakthrough that respects Greenlandic self-determination and the sovereignty of the Kingdom of Denmark while strengthening our shared security in the Arctic. I’m hopeful that this agreement will build upon the longstanding framework established by the 1951 Defense of Greenland Agreement, adapting our cooperation to address today’s security challenges while preserving the foundation that has supported our partnership. I have always had faith in the enduring friendship between the United States, Greenland, and Denmark, and I believe this agreement represents an important opportunity to further strengthen our bond.”
Republican Study Committee: “President Trump proved once again that it is possible to put Americans first while strengthening security for our allies and partners around the world. This historic Greenland deal is a major win for American national security.”
Rep. Brian Babin: “This is a major development and a critical step forward for our national security. Thank you, President Trump, for securing this historic agreement!”
Rep. Michael Cloud: “Today’s agreement on Greenland is significant. It gives the United States permanent control over security in the region and ensures no adversary can establish a presence without our approval. Having visited Pituffik Space Base, the strategic importance of this place is clear.”
Rep. Pat Fallon: “Excellent news for US national security.”
Rep. Randy Fine: “President Trump locked down security control of Greenland so Russia and China can never use it against us. Other presidents talked about it, he got it done. Yet another win for America delivered by President Trump.”
Rep. Lance Gooden: “The ‘experts’ insisted a deal over Greenland was impossible. President Trump has proven them wrong once more. This landmark agreement with Denmark and Greenland will help safeguard U.S. national security for generations to come!”
Rep. Nicole Malliotakis: “The security agreement signed today will strengthen the United States military and strategic position in the Arctic while preventing China and Russia from gaining footholds in the region. Greenland’s strategic location and rare-earth resources make it vital to America’s national and economic security and I applaud President Trump for negotiating this critical and consequential deal.”
Rep. Rich McCormick: “Greenland is critical to America’s national security. President Trump secured a landmark deal that defends our national interests, keeps our adversaries out, and makes America safer. Peace through strength. America First.”
Rep. John Moolenaar: “Permanently controlling Greenland’s security is a tremendous victory for President Trump and the American people. Greenland is home to critical minerals that will power the future and it can never fall under the control of China or Russia. China has often tried to stake false illegitimate claims in the Arctic and this agreement will ensure it never has a foothold in Greenland.”
Rep. Andy Ogles: “President Trump did what no other president could: He secured Greenland and with it the complete security of North America. This is OUR hemisphere. MAKE GREENLAND GREAT AGAIN!”
Rep. Burgess Owens: “This is called Win/Win America First…continuing at warp speed”
Rep. Greg Steube: “President Trump is locking our adversaries out of Greenland and strengthening America’s position in the Arctic. Another great deal for America!”
Rep. Marlin Stutzman: “NEVER DOUBT THE ART OF THE DEAL‼️ Congratulations @POTUS and America on the newest and perhaps greatest security asset to the United States in a long time. We needed Greenland, and now, we have a solution. President Trump, @SecRubio, and everyone behind this extraordinary achievement are always putting America First, and this is the latest, greatest example.”
Source – U.S. White House
AGREEMENT BETWEEN THE GOVERNMENT OF THE UNITED STATES OF AMERICA AND THE GOVERNMENT OF THE KINGDOM OF DENMARK TOGETHER WITH THE GOVERNMENT OF GREENLAND
September 22, 2026
AGREEMENT BETWEEN THE GOVERNMENT OF THE UNITED STATES OF AMERICA AND THE GOVERNMENT OF THE KINGDOM OF DENMARK TOGETHER WITH THE GOVERNMENT OF GREENLAND TO AMEND AND SUPPLEMENT THE AGREEMENT OF 27 APRIL 1951 PURSUANT TO THE NORTH ATLANTIC TREATY BETWEEN THE GOVERNMENT OF THE UNITED STATES OF AMERICA AND THE GOVERNMENT OF THE KINGDOM OF DENMARK ON THE DEFENSE OF GREENLAND (1951 DEFENSE AGREEMENT), INCLUDING ALL RELEVANT SUBSEQUENT AGREEMENTS RELATED THERETO
Preamble
The Government of the United States of America (hereinafter “the United States”) and the Government of the Kingdom of Denmark (hereinafter “the Kingdom of Denmark”) together with the Government of Greenland (hereinafter “Greenland”), hereinafter referred to collectively as “the Parties” and singularly as a “Party”;
Cognizant of the rights and obligations deriving from the 1949 North Atlantic Treaty, and considering that Greenland through the Kingdom of Denmark has been a part of NATO since then;
Recalling the long history of cooperation between the Parties based on their deep respect for democracy, human rights, and the rule of law, as well as the more than eighty years of close defense cooperation between them, which has contributed to strengthening the security and stability of the United States, Greenland, and the rest of the North Atlantic Treaty area;
Reaffirming the sovereignty and territorial integrity of the Kingdom of Denmark, and recognizing that the People of Greenland constitute a people pursuant to international law with the right to self-determination;
Noting that the procedure for Greenlandic independence is set out in Article 21 of Act no. 473 of 12 June 2009 on Greenland Self-Government;
Recognizing the Parties’ respective obligations and commitments under international law as well as national legal frameworks, including all existing agreements between the Parties;
Recognizing the need to protect the pristine environment of Greenland and reaffirming Article VI concerning Protection of the Environment in the 1991 Memorandum of Understanding, as well as the 2004 Joint Declaration;
Recognizing the economic, social, and cultural rights of the People of Greenland, including with respect to their lands and their way of life, including hunting, fishing, and other traditional, cultural, historical, future activities, and developments;
Considering that the Defense Arrangements have promoted stability and well-being in the North Atlantic Treaty area by uniting the Parties’ efforts for collective defense and preserved peace and security as well as developed their collective capacity to resist armed attack;
Recognizing the United States’ indispensable historical and ongoing contributions to the security and defense of Greenland and the rest of the North Atlantic Treaty area, including significant sacrifices and billions of dollars spent over the better part of a century, dating back to before World War II and the establishment of NATO, and the irreplaceable role the United States military plays in the defense of the territory of Greenland now and in the future;
Acknowledging the reopening of the U.S. Consulate in Nuuk and the U.S. contributions to mutual scientific and educational cooperation and exchanges, minerals cooperation, cooperation on economic development and business promotion, and cultural and local partnerships together with Greenland;
Acknowledging as well Greenland’s contribution to the Parties’ mutual security interests and its consequent sharing of the associated risks and responsibilities, and the commitment of the Parties to continuing close cooperation within NATO in ensuring North Atlantic security, as set forth in the 2004 Igaliku Agreement;
Recognizing the security challenges in the Arctic and the High North posed by adversaries’ increased military activity and growing strategic interest in the region;
Recognizing the Parties’ common goal of international peace and peaceful co-existence, and respecting the important contribution of Greenland to this goal;
Reaffirming the common goal of maximizing real, tangible, and substantial benefits to the People of Greenland from the Defense Areas;
Noting that the security situation in the Arctic is changing and that more efforts are needed to ensure security there in the future;
Recognizing the Parties’ shared interest in allowing the United States to have military access to the territory of Greenland to the extent necessary to defend the North Atlantic Treaty area, Greenland, and the American continent, including through establishment of a Golden Dome defense system; and
Wishing therefore to further amend and supplement the Defense Arrangements, so as to strengthen them and reinforce their permanent nature,
Hereby agree as follows:
I.
Objectives
This Agreement amending and supplementing the Defense Arrangements shall facilitate the ability of the Parties to take any measures necessary or appropriate to carry out expeditiously their respective and joint responsibilities in Greenland, including to defend the North Atlantic Treaty area, Greenland, and the American continent, while respecting the interests of and providing benefits for the Greenlandic society.
II.
NATO engagement
The Parties support a stronger NATO engagement in the Arctic, including as regards planning, presence, exercises, and joint intelligence gathering.
III.
Definitions
For the purposes of this Agreement:
“1949 North Atlantic Treaty” means the North Atlantic Treaty signed at Washington on April 4, 1949.
“1951 Defense Agreement” means the Agreement Pursuant to the North Atlantic Treaty between the United States and the Kingdom of Denmark Concerning the Defense of Greenland, signed at Copenhagen on April 27, 1951.
“1991 Memorandum of Understanding” means the Memorandum of Understanding between the United States and the Kingdom of Denmark, including the Home Rule Government of Greenland, Concerning the Use of Sondrestrom Aviation Facility, Kulusuk Airfield and Other Matters Related to United States Military Activities in Greenland, done in Copenhagen, March 13, 1991.
“2004 Igaliku Agreement” means the Agreement between the United States and the Kingdom of Denmark, including the Home Rule Government of Greenland, to Amend and Supplement the 1951 Defense Agreement, Including Relevant Subsequent Agreements Related Thereto, signed at Igaliku on August 6, 2004.
“2004 Joint Declaration” means the Joint Declaration on Cooperation on the Environment in Greenland between the Parties issued on August 6, 2004 in Igaliku.
“2020 Diplomatic Notes” means the exchange of diplomatic notes between the United States and the Kingdom of Denmark concerning contracting, dated October 27, 2020.
“Defense Area” means an area in Greenland where the United States establishes and/or operates a military base consistent with the Defense Arrangements.
“Defense Arrangements” means the 1951 Defense Agreement, together with subsequent amending and supplementing agreements and related non-binding arrangements between the Parties, as set out in Annex 1.
“Greenland Self-Government Law” means the Act no. 473 of 12 June 2009 on Greenland Self-Government.
“Permanent Committee” means a committee established under the 1991 Memorandum of Understanding to facilitate consultation and exchange of information on matters relating to the United States military presence in Greenland.
“Particularly Sensitive Sectors or Activities” means sectors or activities determined to be particularly sensitive, including but not limited to critical infrastructure and the extraction of resources.
“Territorial Waters” means the territorial sea around Greenland as laid down in national law by the Kingdom of Denmark in accordance with the international law of the sea as reflected in the UN Convention on the Law of the Sea.
IV.
Defense Areas
The Parties shall make best use of the procedures set out in the Defense Arrangements, including the 1951 Defense Agreement and the 2004 Igaliku Agreement, as amended and supplemented herein, to enable the following:
- The United States shall be allowed to modernize and expand its activities in Pituffik Space Base;
- The United States shall be allowed to establish an additional Defense Area at Narsarsuaq and Mestersvig in accordance with modalities and technical details to be mutually agreed by the Parties;
- The United States may establish additional defense areas in Greenland and strengthen its military operations or facilities. Either Party may identify the need for a new Defense Area for the defense of the North Atlantic Treaty area, Greenland, and the American continent. Such Party shall provide a proposal describing the location, scope, size, and types of activities of the proposed Defense Area as well as other modalities such as mitigating measures, including those necessary to take account of the 1991 Memorandum of Understanding and the 2004 Joint Declaration. The Parties shall immediately convene to engage in consultations through the Permanent Committee to decide implementation details based on mutual agreement. If no agreement is reached within 90 days at the Permanent Committee, consultations shall escalate to the deputy minister level, followed by the minister level;
- The United States shall award all contracts to commercial enterprises for goods and services related to the establishment, maintenance and servicing, including, but not limited to, construction and dismantling projects, of Defense Areas in Greenland to Greenlandic sources to the maximum extent possible, taking into account the capabilities and feasibility of such sources to implement contracts. To secure contracts to Greenlandic sources, the Parties agree to update the 2020 Diplomatic Notes accordingly.
V.
Unmanned military installations
The Kingdom of Denmark together with Greenland shall review requests to establish unmanned military installations in Greenland outside of the Defense Areas under accelerated governmental approval procedures. The request shall include a proposal describing the location, scope, size, and types of activities of the proposed unmanned military installation, as well as other modalities such as mitigating measures, including those necessary to take account of the 1991 Memorandum of Understanding and the 2004 Joint Declaration. Article IV(iv.) of this Agreement shall apply to the establishment, maintenance, and servicing of such unmanned military installations.
VI.
United States military access, basing and overflight
As regards United States access to the rest of the territory of Greenland (including the Territorial Waters), the following shall apply:
- With a view to ensuring a secure and effective operation of the Defense Areas, the United States of America shall enjoy, for its public vessels and aircraft and its armed forces and vehicles, the right of free access to and movement between the Defense Areas through Greenland, including the Territorial Waters, by land, air and sea. This may also apply to unmanned military installations subject to agreement bythe Parties on the modalities at the time of establishment;
- United States aircraft may fly over and land in any territory in Greenland, including the Territorial Waters, and United States public vessels may have undersea access to and movement within the Territorial Waters, without restriction except as mutually agreed upon by the Parties;
- United States public vessels shall be given such additional access to and movement within the Territorial Waters as isagreed to by the Parties at any given time to be required by the military situation for the defense of the North Atlantic Treaty area, Greenland, and the American continent, or for other purposes as may be agreed bythe Parties.
These rights must be exercised in a manner that respects the Greenlandic society and the Greenlandic way of life, including hunting, fishing, and other traditional, cultural, historical, and other future activities, to the maximum extent possible.
The implementation of this Article will be addressed regularly at the Permanent Committee.
VII.
Security of the Defense Areas and prevention of espionage
The Parties agree that the territory in the vicinity of a Defense Area shall not be used in any manner that threatens the security of the Defense Area. In order to implement this requirement, the Parties intend to cooperate with respect to ensuring the security of the Defense Areas. The United States shall have the right to raise concerns regarding construction, or change of use in a manner that threatens a Defense Area, of any building, facility, or installation in the vicinity of the Defense Area. Upon such notification the Parties shall mutually determine what steps may be necessary to address any threat.
The Parties shall work together to counter espionage in Greenland. Relevant authorities in the Kingdom of Denmark shall keep in close contact with relevant U.S. authorities and other partners to the fullest extent necessary to implement this Article.
VIII.
Defense posture by the Kingdom of Denmark
The Kingdom of Denmark has strengthened and shall continue to strengthen its security posture in the Arctic through comprehensive, multi-domain approach encompassing land, maritime, air and space capabilities. Through enhanced presence, improved surveillance and increased cooperation and interoperability with NATO-Allies, the Kingdom of Denmark shall continue to address emerging threats and contribute to collective stability and security in the Arctic region.
IX.
Establishment of manned or unmanned military installations by third states
No state that is not a member of NATO shall be allowed to establish its own manned or unmanned military installations in Greenland nor shall they be allowed a persistent presence of military forces in Greenland, unless otherwise agreed by the Parties.
X.
Foreign direct investment and other activities
Given the threat to national security and public order posed by increased efforts by adversaries to expand influence and control in Greenland, the Parties agree that states or investors from a state that is not a member of NATO, a NATO partner, or an EU member state shall not be allowed to have (i) control, (ii) significant influence, or (iii) access to non-public information that may constitute a threat to national security or public order within Particularly Sensitive Sectors or Activities in the territory of Greenland (including the Territorial Waters), unless agreed between the Parties that the activities of such states or investors would not constitute a threat to national security or public order.
The objective shall be ensured by Greenland in close cooperation with the authorities of the Kingdom of Denmark in its application of any of its current or future investment screening laws.
Relevant authorities in the Kingdom of Denmark shall engage in close consultation with relevant United States authorities and other partners. The specific modalities for that close consultation shall be determined by the relevant authorities.
XI.
Permanent nature of this Agreement
This Agreement does not have an end date and may only be amended by mutual consent in accordance with Article XIII of the 1951 Defense Agreement.
In case Greenland exercises its right to self-determination to become independent, the Government of the Kingdom of Denmark and the Government of Greenland shall together ensure that the independent Greenlandic state will (i) agree to remain in NATO, including by applying to become a member if necessary, and (ii) affirmatively assume, as from the date of independence, all of the rights and obligations of the Kingdom of Denmark specified in this Agreement, including any implementation agreements or arrangements between the Parties, as well as the Defense Arrangements.
XII.
Entry into force
This Agreement shall enter into force on the date of a diplomatic note informing the United States of the completion of necessary parliamentary procedures by the Kingdom of Denmark together with Greenland.
Done at New York on the 22nd day of September, 2026, in triplicate in the English, Danish, and Greenlandic languages. In the event of ambiguity or conflict between the versions, the English language version shall prevail.
Annex 1
Key agreements in the Defense Arrangements include, inter alia:
Main agreement:
- Agreement of 27 April 1951 between the Government of the United States of America and the Government of the Kingdom of Denmark, pursuant to the North Atlantic Treaty, concerning the defense of Greenland
Additional agreements and related non-binding arrangements:
- Exchange of Notes of 31 May 1968 between the Government of the United States of America and the Kingdom of Denmark supplementing the Agreement of 27 April 1951.
- Memorandum of Understanding of 13 March 1991 between the Government of the United States of America and the Government of the Kingdom of Denmark (Including the Home Rule Government of Greenland) concerning the use of Sondrestrom Aviation Facility, Kulusuk Airfield and Other Matters Related to the United States Military Activities in Greenland
- Memorandum of Understanding of 20 February 2003 between the Government of the United States of America and the Government of the Kingdom of Denmark (Including Greenland Home Rule Government) Concerning the Dundas Area
- Agreement of 6 August 2004 between the Government of the United States of America and the Government of the Kingdom of Denmark, Including the Home Rule Government of Greenland, to Amend and Supplement the Agreement of 27 April 1951, Including Relevant Subsequent Agreements Related Thereto
- Joint Declaration of 6 August 2004 by the Government of the United States of America and the Government of the Kingdom of Denmark, Including the Home Rule Government of Greenland, on Economic and Technical Cooperation
- Joint Declaration of 6 August 2004 by the Government of the United States of America and the Government of the Kingdom of Denmark, Including the Home Rule Government of Greenland, on Cooperation on the Environment in Greenland
- Joint Statement of 28 October 2020 on Improved Cooperation in Greenland; Exchange of Notes of 27 October 2020; and Common Plan for U.S.-Greenland Cooperation in Support of our Understanding for Pituffik (Thule Air Base) signed 28 October 2020
Relevant NATO agreements:
- North Atlantic Treaty of 4 April 1949
- Agreement of 19 June 1951 between the Parties to the North Atlantic Treaty regarding the status of their forces (“NATO-SOFA”)
Source – U.S. White House
U.S. President Trump’s post on his social media channel Truth Social on September 18, 2026
BREAKING NEWS: I am pleased to announce that the United States of America has entered into an Agreement with The Kingdom of Denmark, and Greenland, that gives the United States permanent control over security, and all other needs, in Greenland, completely addressing ALL of our many U.S. concerns.
There will be NO COST to the United States! At my direction, we worked with representatives of Denmark and Greenland to guarantee that the United States will FOREVER have the complete ability to do what is necessary in Greenland in order to secure and defend the security of Greenland, and the United States of America.
Additionally, from now on, no U.S. adversary can EVER have a base in Greenland, have a military presence in Greenland, or make sensitive investments in Greenland, without our express written approval.
For over 100 years, Presidents have known the strategic importance of Greenland, but NONE of them were able to do anything about it. I am proud to be the President that permanently and conclusively addressed this very important situation.
This is an “Infinite Life” Agreement, there is no end! We are very honored and proud of what has just taken place, and everything agreed to today will be cherished by the American People. We will immediately begin the process of developing a large Military presence in the appropriate part of Greenland, of which there are many.
We will work with the people of Greenland in its development and construction. This solution is a great one for the United States of America, Denmark, Greenland, and all of our Allies.
We look forward to working with the wonderful people of Denmark and Greenland toward a magnificent future with respect to this large, and highly strategic, parcel of land. We will be very protective of it! This is a dream come true for the United States of America, one that is very important, historic, and special. Thank you for your attention to this matter!
President DONALD J. TRUMP
Source – @realDonaldTrump – Sep 18, 2026, 11:18 PM