Trump Secures U.S. Permanent Security Control Over Greenland, Stopping Russian, Chinese Bases

But tension grows. Trump outlined the agreement in a Truth Social post on Friday, declaring that Washington would acquire permanent control over Greenland's security, effectively barring any Russian or Chinese military footholds. – 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.

Denmark’s Prime Minister Mette Frederiksen said she was pleased that a good agreement was on the horizon, adding that it was "good for NATO and Europe." Greenland’s own Prime Minister, Jens‑Frederik Nielsen, echoed the sentiment, saying the deal "strengthens the territory’s security."

The 1951 defense pact, updated in 2004, already permits Washington to ramp up troop deployments and install military facilities on the island, provided it informs Denmark and Greenland in advance. A State Department official emphasized that the new agreement guarantees that China and Russia cannot set up a base, send troops, or invest in sensitive sectors without explicit U.S. approval.

The deal will be signed on the sidelines of the U.N. General Assembly in New York next week. Once signed, Washington is expected to expand its footprint by opening up to three new bases in southern Greenland, in addition to the existing Pituffik base in the north.

Greenland, home to 57,000 residents, faces a sudden shift in its strategic landscape. The announcement has already prompted local leaders to scramble to understand how the influx of U.S. troops will affect daily life in small fishing communities across the island.