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Greenland: the US-Denmark Security Deal
Greenland is an autonomous territory of Denmark, and on 18 September 2026 the United States, Denmark and Greenland announced an agreement to expand the American military presence there. Sovereignty stays with Denmark; in exchange Washington says it obtains lasting access, basing rights and overflight rights, plus the power to keep its adversaries from building bases or making sensitive investments on the island. The announcement closes months of pressure from the American President, who had asked Denmark to sell Greenland and would not rule out force. It is not yet in effect: the three governments are to sign it at the United Nations General Assembly, and the parliaments of Denmark and Greenland must approve it first.
Last updated 19 September 20264 min read
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A new card. The United States, Denmark and Greenland announced a security agreement on 18 September 2026: an expanded American military presence on the Arctic island, a bar on non-NATO countries building bases there, and sovereignty left with Denmark. It is to be signed at the UN General Assembly next week and needs parliamentary approval in Denmark and Greenland before it takes effect.
- Greenland
- Denmark
- Arctic security
- NATO
- US military presence
- autonomous territory
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