Trump announces Greenland deal framework and scraps tariffs
Photo: Donald Trump, President of the United States (Getty Images)
US President Donald Trump said that the framework of a future agreement on Greenland and the entire Arctic region is taking shape following a meeting with NATO Secretary General Mark Rutte, according to Trump’s Truth Social post and CNBC.
The American leader described the meeting with the NATO Secretary General as "very productive," stressing that if implemented, the agreement would benefit both the United States and all NATO allies.
Trump also emphasized that, in light of the understanding reached, he decided not to impose tariffs that were scheduled to take effect on February 1.
"Additional discussions are being held concerning The Golden Dome as it pertains to Greenland. Further information will be made available as discussions progress," he said.
Trump tasked Vice President JD Vance, Secretary of State Marco Rubio, Special Envoy Steve Witkoff, and other officials, as needed, with leading the negotiations. According to Trump, all of them will report directly to him.
During his speech at the World Economic Forum in Davos, Trump stated for the first time that he would not use military force to take control of Greenland.
In an interview with CNBC, when asked to provide more details about the proposal, Trump said it was "a little bit complex" and promised to do it later.
At the same time, he noted that the deal would include mineral rights for the United States as well as the proposed Golden Dome missile defense system.
"They’re going to be involved in the Golden Dome, and they’re going to be involved in mineral rights, and so are we," the US President said.
The US and Greenland
Trump has previously said that control over Greenland is an "absolute necessity" for US national security. According to him, the island is surrounded by Russian and Chinese fleets, while Denmark is unable to provide adequate protection.
There have also been reports that the United States could pay up to $700 billion to purchase Greenland. Secretary of State Marco Rubio has already been tasked with preparing a proposal.
On Saturday, January 17, Trump stated that starting February 1, Denmark, Norway, Sweden, France, Germany, the United Kingdom, the Netherlands, and Finland would face a 10% tariff on all goods supplied to the US, with the rate rising to 25% beginning June 1.
