After the meeting between President Trump and the Secretary-General of NATO, the NATO organization pledged on Thursday (January 21) to ensure the security of the Arctic region and prevent China and Russia from establishing a foothold in that area.
NATO spokesperson Alison Hart stated in an email to The Epoch Times, “The Secretary-General had a very productive meeting with President Trump, discussing the crucial importance of Arctic security for all allied countries, including the United States.”
The details of the newly announced framework are still unclear at this point. Hart mentioned that relevant discussions are ongoing.
She said, “All NATO allies are discussing the framework mentioned by the President, focusing on ensuring Arctic security through collective efforts of the allies, especially the efforts of the seven Arctic allies.”
She also stated, “Negotiations between Denmark, Greenland, and the United States will continue to progress, with the goal of ensuring that Russia and China (CCP) never gain a foothold in Greenland—economically or militarily.”
Earlier in the day, Trump discussed with NATO Secretary-General Mark Rutte in Davos, Switzerland the possibility of the United States acquiring Greenland through diplomatic means.
Rutte, speaking at the World Economic Forum, expressed that Trump’s assessment of aggressive behavior by China and Russia in the region is correct.
Regarding the Arctic, Rutte stated, “When it comes to the Arctic, I think President Trump is right. Other NATO leaders are also right. We need to defend the Arctic.”
“We know that sea routes are opening,” he added, providing opportunities for Chinese and Russian activities in the region.
Trump later announced a proposed agreement on Truth Social.
He wrote, “If this plan is ultimately successful, it will be a great deal for the United States and all NATO countries.”
Vice President Vance, Secretary of State Rubio, and Special Envoy Witkoff have been tasked with finalizing the negotiations in the coming weeks.
Trump also rescinded his earlier threat to impose additional tariffs on eight NATO countries. These countries, including Denmark, Norway, Sweden, France, Germany, UK, the Netherlands, and Finland, strongly opposed the United States acquiring the Arctic island. The tariffs were originally set to take effect on February 1.
In an interview with CNBC, Trump described this as a “complex” agreement but assured that it will be “lasting.”
Acquiring Greenland has long been seen by Trump as a significant national security issue and a top priority. He stated that the largest island in the world is crucial for the implementation of the “Golden Dome” missile defense plan by the Trump administration.
On January 14, Trump posted on Truth Social, saying, “With the United States in control of Greenland, NATO would become stronger and more effective.”
He further stated, “Anything less than this standard is unacceptable.”
Danish Foreign Minister Lars Lokke Rasmussen and Greenland Foreign Minister Vivian Motzfeldt visited the White House on January 14 for meetings with Vance and Rubio.
On January 17, a bipartisan congressional delegation composed of 9 Democratic representatives, along with Republican Senators Thom Tillis and Lisa Murkowski, traveled to Denmark to discuss the future of this semi-autonomous territory.
Greenland was first visited by Danish explorer in 1721 and has been under Danish rule since 1751. The establishment of the parliament in 1979 granted local autonomy, laying the foundation for about 56,000 residents to move towards self-governance.
In 2009, Greenland officially transitioned to an “autonomous government,” significantly expanding its control over internal affairs.