Trump outlines future framework at Davos
US President Donald Trump has spoken of a “future agreement framework” for Greenland following his meeting with NATO Secretary General Mark Rutte on the sidelines of the World Economic Forum in Davos, Switzerland.
Speaking to CNBC, Trump said the United States and its European allies would cooperate on developing the “Golden Dome” missile defence shield and on mineral extraction in Greenland, highlighting the island’s strategic importance in the Arctic.
Without providing specific details, the US president described the issue of ownership as “a little complicated”, adding that explanations would be given “along the way”. He said the deal would be long-term, stating: “It’s forever.”
Cyprus-style model to ease Danish concerns
According to The Telegraph, a draft of the Greenland agreement would see the United States control parts of Greenland designated as sovereign base areas, effectively treating them as US territory in the Arctic.
The framework reportedly mirrors the UK–Cyprus agreement, a model which grants Britain sovereignty over two military bases while safeguarding the rights of Cypriots living in those areas. The British newspaper notes that this approach could reassure Denmark that Washington does not intend to annex the semi-autonomous territory.
The Cyprus-UK model is viewed as a creative solution to Trump’s repeated demands for ownership of the island, which he considers vital to US defence strategy.
Under a similar arrangement, the United States would be able to develop and operate military infrastructure in Greenland, conduct intelligence and training operations, and enjoy unrestricted freedom of movement between designated defence zones by air, land and sea.
Minerals and the “Golden Dome”
The proposed Greenland agreement would also allow the US to control areas potentially rich in minerals without seeking additional permits. This would, in turn, facilitate the deployment of assets linked to the future “Golden Dome” missile defence system in the region.
Military leaders from NATO arrived in Davos this week amid efforts to manage political tensions stemming from a growing rift between Europe and Washington.
“Extremely productive meeting”
In a post on Truth Social following his meeting with Mark Rutte, Trump described the talks as “extremely productive” and said the future agreement would be “excellent for the United States and all NATO member states”, guaranteeing security in the Arctic.
He added that under the proposed framework, no new tariffs would be imposed on European countries that had opposed his ambitions regarding Greenland. Trump also confirmed that discussions on the Golden Dome defence system are ongoing, stressing that Greenland would play a crucial role in its deployment.
Earlier, addressing business and political leaders at the World Economic Forum, Trump said he was seeking “direct negotiations” to acquire Greenland, insisting he would not use force but arguing that US control of the island is necessary for national and international security.
“All we ask for is Greenland, full rights, title and ownership,” Trump said, adding that such a move would strengthen NATO rather than threaten it.
Analysts note that Trump’s retreat from earlier threats of military force — which had alarmed NATO allies and risked a serious cohesion crisis — may offer some initial relief to European partners.
NATO cautious on details
A NATO spokesperson said Secretary General Rutte had a “very productive meeting” with President Trump, focusing on the critical importance of Arctic security for all allies.
In an interview with Fox News’ “Special Report with Bret Baier”, Rutte said the question of whether Greenland would remain part of the Kingdom of Denmark was not discussed. He remained cautious about the details of the announced framework, stressing that significant work remains before any substantive agreement is reached.
“We have a good agreement to start working seriously on these issues,” Rutte said, noting that discussions are still at an early stage. He added that talks focused on what NATO can do collectively to safeguard security across the Arctic, particularly amid increased activity by China and Russia in the region.
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