World · North America · 2 hrs ago
Greenland lawmakers signal support for US security agreement
Most lawmakers in Greenland signalled support for a security agreement with the United States and Denmark during a debate in the capital, Nuuk.
The agreement was signed last month after US President Donald Trump repeatedly threatened to take control of the strategically located, mineral-rich island.
It would expand the US military role, allow two new bases and pave the way for Trump's Golden Dome missile defence system.
It also reaffirms Danish sovereignty and Greenlanders' right to decide their own future.
Opposition lawmakers said the agreement leaves unclear how it will work and does not guarantee Greenland a fixed payment for US access.
Government parties said the deal offers protection without cost and recognises Greenland's status as an autonomous nation.
Parliament must hold a second reading and vote on the agreement; lawmakers are expected to approve it.
A majority of Greenlandic lawmakers signalled support for a security agreement with the United States during a parliamentary debate on Monday.
The agreement was signed last month by the United States, Denmark and Greenland.
It expands the US military’s role in Greenland and provides for two new military bases and the “Golden Dome” missile defence system.
The agreement reaffirms Danish sovereignty and Greenlanders’ right to self-determination.
Some opposition members questioned the deal’s economic value, while government parties defended it.
- Who
- Greenlandic lawmakers, including government and opposition party members.
- What
- They debated a security agreement with the United States, and a majority signalled support.
- When
- Monday, October 12, 2026; the agreement was signed last month.
- Where
- Greenland’s capital, Nuuk.
- Why
- The agreement is aimed at ending tensions after Donald Trump repeatedly threatened to take control of Greenland.
Greenland government parties
Naleraq opposition members
Economic value
Greenland government parties
Government representatives said Greenland secured protection without paying for it.
Naleraq opposition members
Naleraq chair Pele Broberg said Greenlanders are not guaranteed fixed payment for the rights granted to the United States.
Assessment of the deal
Greenland government parties
Foreign Minister Mute Egede called it a huge step forward, and Siumut said it was satisfied.
Naleraq opposition members
Broberg said many details about how the agreement would work in practice remained unclear.
The United States, Denmark and Greenland signed the security agreement.
Greenlandic lawmakers debated the agreement, and a majority signalled support.
The agreement is due for a second reading in parliament before a vote.
- Signatories
- United States, Denmark and Greenland
- Debate location
- Nuuk, Greenland
- US military plans
- Two new military bases and the “Golden Dome” missile defence system
- Parliamentary status
- A second reading is required before a vote
- Agreement’s stated aim
- Ending tensions after Trump repeatedly threatened to take control of Greenland
What people are saying
The US is granted extensive rights in our country. The people of Greenland are not guaranteed any fixed payment for those rights,
a huge step forward
massive
For several years, Siumut has been campaigning to ensure that agreements concerning Greenland are no longer concluded without Greenlandic participation... That is why we are satisfied,
Sources
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