NATO wants to offer Trump compromise over his encroachment on Greenland, media says

NATO sources told DPA that the Alliance wants to offer Trump a significant expansion of its military presence in the Arctic.

Greenland is important because of its rich raw material resources and as a base for military control of the Arctic. In addition, shipping lanes are becoming more accessible, at least in summer, as climate change intensifies.

According to media reports, this initiative is being discussed with Trump in informal talks. New defense plans adopted in 2023 may serve as a basis for strengthening NATO's presence in the Arctic. These are classified documents that provide for strengthening deterrence and defense capabilities in the far north as well.

The United States is already using the Pituffik space base in Greenland. This base, among other things, supports missile warning systems, missile defense, and space surveillance missions. Danish military forces are also present in Greenland.

The agency adds that the debate over Greenland is dangerous for NATO. The alliance has to fear for its credibility, and on the other hand, it would be a disaster if the United States withdrew from NATO over such a dispute.

Greenland dispute

During his first term in the White House, US President Donald Trump declared his desire to buy Greenland. After winning the election in 2024, he resumed these talks.

Danish Prime Minister Mette Frederiksen has emphasized that the island is not for sale. According to the Financial Times, Frederiksen and Trump had a conversation before the inauguration. According to the agency's sources, Trump was aggressive and confrontational on the Greenland issue.

Recently, the US President expressed confidence that the island will be under the control of the United States.