By 16-0, Greenland approves trilateral security deal with Denmark following pressure from Trump

Parliament backs security agreement

The agreement sets out to bolster U.S. military presence on the island and make way for additional American bases. It also keeps Greenland, a self-governing territory, under Danish control and remains applicable if Greenland eventually chooses independence.

Danish lawmakers are expected to debate the pact later this month. It will enter into force after the necessary parliamentary processes in Denmark and Greenland are completed.

Trump pressure shaped debate

The vote followed months of pressure from Trump, who repeatedly called for Greenland to become part of the United States. He had said he would not rule out military force to take control, citing U.S. national security, but later backed away from that threat.

The White House did not immediately comment on Tuesday’s vote. The State Department called it “another major victory for American national security,” and said the administration was securing U.S. strategic interests in the Arctic and strengthening national defense.

After the vote, Nielsen wrote on Facebook that Greenlanders had remained united through months of geopolitical tension and had shown the world that the island decides its own fate. He said cooperation with other countries must respect Greenland’s people, country and rights.

Residents voice mixed reactions

Some residents in Ilulissat hoped approval would ease tensions. Nukaaka Lund-Mathaeussen, 28, said she hoped the Trump administration “got what they wanted” and that threats from the U.S. government would stop.

Lund-Mathaeussen also said some island residents felt worried and powerless. William Tukula, a 34-year-old chef, said he had seen older Greenlanders on Facebook expressing fear about Trump and soldiers.

Nukaaraq Thomsen, 43, said the agreement might protect Greenland but not its people. Avannaata Municipality Mayor Lars Erik Gabrielsen likewise questioned its benefits, calling it a good deal for Denmark and NATO but not for Greenlanders.

Local benefits remain uncertain

The agreement says Washington is to award contracts connected to establishing, maintaining or dismantling bases to Greenlandic sources “to the maximum extent possible.” Gabrielsen said he saw no money or other benefits for Greenlandic society. The pact is intended to strengthen security in the Arctic and North Atlantic while preserving Greenland’s current status under Danish control. Its implementation remains contingent on the parliamentary processes still to be completed.