Trump Says Greenland Deal Will Give US “Total Access” With No Time Limit, No Payment
President Donald Trump speaking at the World Economic Forum in Davos, where he discussed U.S. access to Greenland.
In a major geopolitical statement that has drawn worldwide attention, U.S. President Donald J. Trump said a proposed agreement related to Greenland would give the United States “total access” to the strategically important Arctic territory — with no time limit and no financial payment involved.
The comments were made during Trump’s appearance at the World Economic Forum in Davos, Switzerland, where he explained that negotiations were ongoing and that the final arrangement would strongly benefit long-term U.S. strategic interests.
What Trump Actually Said About Greenland
Trump stated that discussions are still underway but emphasized that the core idea of the agreement is permanent access for the United States. According to him, there would be no expiration date and no requirement for direct payment.
“It’s really being negotiated now, the details of it. But essentially it’s total access. There’s no end, there’s no time limit.”
He also noted that U.S. financial markets reacted positively following his remarks, suggesting that investors viewed the development as strategically favorable for America.
Background: Trump’s Longstanding Interest in Greenland
This is not the first time Donald Trump has shown interest in Greenland. Over the years, he has repeatedly highlighted the island’s strategic value, including its geographic position near the Arctic Circle and its importance to U.S. defense infrastructure.
Greenland already hosts U.S. military installations under a long-standing defense agreement with Denmark dating back to 1951. The island’s location makes it critical for missile defense, early-warning systems, and Arctic surveillance.
U.S. interest in Greenland is driven by several factors:
- National security: Control over Arctic air and sea routes.
- Natural resources: Rare earth minerals, energy potential, and future shipping lanes.
- Geopolitical competition: Limiting influence from rival powers such as Russia and China.
Trump’s Shift Away From Tariffs and Force
Earlier this year, Trump raised concerns among U.S. allies after suggesting trade penalties against European nations if cooperation over Greenland was not achieved. Those remarks triggered diplomatic unease across Europe.
However, following talks with NATO leadership in Davos, Trump stepped back from tariff threats and clarified that any agreement would focus on security cooperation rather than territorial control.
He also publicly ruled out the use of military force, addressing fears that the United States might pursue aggressive tactics in the Arctic.
An aerial view of Greenland highlighting key U.S. military installations, underlining the island’s strategic importance.
Reaction From Denmark, Greenland, and NATO
Despite Trump’s statements, Denmark and Greenland have firmly rejected the idea that Greenland’s sovereignty is open for negotiation. Danish Prime Minister Mette Frederiksen reiterated that Greenland remains part of the Kingdom of Denmark and that any future discussions must involve both Danish and Greenlandic authorities.
NATO officials also clarified that Greenland’s sovereignty was not part of alliance-level negotiations. The alliance emphasized that Arctic cooperation must fully respect international law and existing territorial arrangements.
Greenlandic lawmakers echoed this stance, stating clearly that NATO has no authority to negotiate Greenland’s political status and that no formal consent has been given for any agreement altering sovereignty.
Public Protests and Local Opposition
Trump’s remarks sparked public demonstrations in Greenland and Denmark. Thousands of people participated in protests under the slogan “Hands Off Greenland,” expressing opposition to any external control or influence.
The protests highlighted deep concerns among residents about sovereignty, self-determination, and respect for Greenland’s democratic institutions.
Protesters in Nuuk and Copenhagen holding signs reading “Greenland is not for sale.”
International Geopolitical Impact
Globally, Trump’s comments have reignited debate over Arctic governance. European leaders expressed relief after tariff threats were withdrawn but remain cautious about U.S. intentions in the region.
Analysts believe Greenland will continue to play a key role in Arctic security discussions, balancing defense cooperation with sovereignty and indigenous rights.
What Comes Next
As of now, no legally binding agreement has been finalized. Negotiations continue between the United States, NATO allies, Denmark, and Greenlandic authorities.
While Trump’s remarks signal strong U.S. interest, experts note that any long-term arrangement must align with international law and respect Greenland’s self-governing status.
Conclusion
Trump’s claim that a Greenland deal would grant the U.S. total access with no time limit or payment has become one of the most debated foreign policy issues of 2026. Whether this vision turns into a formal agreement remains uncertain, but the Arctic’s strategic importance has never been clearer.