DAVOS, SWITZERLAND January 21, 2026 — President Donald Trump announced on Wednesday that he has formed a “framework of a future deal” regarding Greenland and the broader Arctic region following a meeting with NATO Secretary General Mark Rutte at the World Economic Forum. The agreement led Trump to cancel planned tariffs on European allies who had opposed U.S. efforts to acquire the Danish territory.
The development comes amid heightened tensions over Trump’s renewed push to purchase Greenland, which he has described as crucial for U.S. national security in the Arctic. In a social media post, Trump stated, “Based upon a very productive meeting that I have had with the Secretary General of NATO, Mark Rutte, we have formed the framework of a future deal with respect to Greenland and, in fact, the entire Arctic Region.” He added that the deal would be “a great one” for both the U.S. and NATO, though specifics remain undisclosed.
White House Press Secretary Karoline Leavitt defended the president’s stance during an appearance on Fox News earlier that day, emphasizing Greenland’s strategic importance. “President Trump is right. Greenland is absolutely essential for America’s national security in the Arctic region,” Leavitt said. “If the United States doesn’t get it soon enough, China or Russia will—and that’s not just a threat to the United States but especially Europe. So President Trump is not just looking out for America here—he’s looking out for NATO, too.”
Leavitt noted that Trump deeply respects Rutte and that the two leaders would discuss the topic imminently. The meeting, held on the sidelines of the Davos forum, also involved U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio. Rutte later clarified in a Fox News interview that Denmark’s sovereignty over Greenland was not discussed, with the focus instead on enhancing Arctic security. “There’s a lot of work to be done to make sure NATO has everything needed on land, sea, and air,” Rutte said.
The announcement marks a de-escalation after Trump had threatened tariffs on NATO members opposing the acquisition, a move that rattled markets and raised concerns about alliance unity. Trump had previously ruled out military force but insisted on pursuing ownership. European leaders, including those from Denmark, have repeatedly affirmed that Greenland is not for sale.
Trump mentioned that Vice President JD Vance, Rubio, and special envoy Steve Witkoff would lead ongoing negotiations. The framework appears to prioritize cooperative security measures in the Arctic, potentially including expanded U.S. military presence without a full transfer of ownership.
This is not Trump’s first foray into Greenland discussions; during his previous term, he expressed interest in buying the island, citing its mineral resources and strategic location amid climate change and great-power competition. The recent talks follow a phone call between Trump and Rutte earlier in the week on the same topic.
Analysts suggest the deal could strengthen NATO’s posture against Russian and Chinese advances in the Arctic, where melting ice is opening new shipping routes and resource opportunities. However, critics argue it risks straining transatlantic relations if perceived as U.S. overreach.
The White House has not released further details, and NATO officials have yet to comment officially on the framework.
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