On Wednesday, US President Donald Trump declared that he and NATO Secretary-General Mark Rutte had agreed a “framework of a future deal” over Greenland. Additionally, he removed his threat to apply 10% trade taxes on eight European countries who opposed the transfer of Greenland to the United States. If no agreement was achieved the tariffs would have increased to 25% later in the year.
Within the kingdom of Denmark, Greenland is a self governing region. Denmark and Greenland have made it clear time and time again that the island is not for sale.
Rutte met with Trump at the World Economic Forum annual gathering in Davos, Switzerland. It was an attempt to ease growing tension across the Atlantic. Trump reaffirmed his desire to purchase Greenland during his speech at Davos on Wednesday. However, he ruled out annexing the Artic Island by force.
What is the framework for Greenland?
Trump claimed on social media that a “very productive meeting” with the head of NATO had resulted in the “framework” of a potential deal on Greenland and the Arctic. Additionally, NATO described the discussions as “very productive.” They stated that any work on the framework that Trump proposed will concentrate on preserving Arctic security.
But Rutte stated on Wednesday that he did not bring up the issue of wither Greenland would stay apart of Denmark when he spoke with Donald Trump.
Trump has repeatedly stated that in order to prevent China or Russia from encroaching on the military important and mineral-rich Arctic region, Washington must posses Greenland. The island is an independent portion of the Danish Kingdom that is home to us airfield.
Denmark’s Relief
One of the worst transatlantic in decades was brought on by Trump’s threats. It raised fears that he may undermine NATO by attacking another Member.
Denmark, a long standing US ally, was somewhat relieved by his shift in tone after Trump threats shocked and betrayed them. “I will not attack Greenland” Trump declared, pausing the trade war. These are positive messages,” Foreign Minister Lars Lokke Rasmussen told Danish public broadcaster DR.
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