DATE: TUESDAY, SEPTEMBER 22, 2026
★ SPECIAL PRINT EDITION ★
SECTION: WORLD
Trump Signs Deal to Build Two US Military Bases in Greenland

Trump Signs Deal to Build Two US Military Bases in Greenland

Sep 23, 2026 - 01:51
US to build two military bases in Greenland under new deal with Denmark
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Key Highlights

  • US to build two new military bases in Greenland under new deal with Denmark.
  • Deal amends and updates 1951 defence agreement between Denmark and US.
  • US to establish additional Defence Area at Narsarsuaq and Mestersvig in Greenland.

US President Donald Trump has signed a new defence agreement with Denmark. Paving the way for the establishment of two new military bases in Greenland. The deal amends and updates a 1951 defence agreement between Denmark and the US.

This allows for the creation of a Defence Area at Narsarsuaq and Mestersvig in the Arctic territory.

Narsarsuaq, located on the eastern coast of Greenland, boasts deep-water access and a large runway, making it an ideal location for military operations. In contrast, Mestersvig outpost is a remote site used by a Danish naval dog sled unit, highlighting the strategic importance of the new bases.

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According to the agreement, the "modalities and technical details" of the bases are yet to be confirmed, and must be mutually agreed upon by all parties. The deal also confirms Greenland's commitment to NATO. This ensures the territory would remain part of the alliance if it were to gain independence from Denmark.

US President Donald Trump shakes hands with Danish Prime Minister Mette Frederiksen as they attend a trilateral signing event
Image caption, US President Donald Trump signed the deal alongside Danish Prime Minister Mette Frederiksen

The new bases will allow the US to "modernise and expand its activities" at its existing Pituffik Space Base in Greenland's north-west. The Pituffik base has been a key location for US military operations in the region. And the new deal is seen as a significant expansion of US presence in the Arctic.

Trump had previously expressed interest in purchasing or annexing Greenland. Citing concerns over the territory's vulnerability to adversaries such as Russia and China. However, the new deal comes with "no cost to the United States", according to Trump.

A NATO spokesperson welcomed the deal, stating that it would "help advance security, stability, and cooperation in this vital region". The agreement is seen as a major development in US-Denmark relations, and marks a significant shift in the region's security dynamics.

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A map showing the existing US military base in Pituffik in Greenland's north-west, and two planned bases in Narsarsuaq in the south, and Mestervig in the east.
A map showing the existing US military base in Pituffik in Greenland's north-west, and two planned bases in Narsarsuaq in the south, and Mestervig in the east.

Washington's decision to establish new military bases in Greenland has significant implications for regional security and US-Denmark relations. The deal is seen as a major development in the region's security dynamics. And marks a significant shift in the role of the US in the Arctic.

A NATO spokesperson described the deal as a "milestone in our long-standing co-operation", highlighting the importance of the agreement in advancing security, stability, and cooperation in the region.

The deal is expected to have significant implications for regional security, and will be closely watched by allies and adversaries alike.

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I write about the forces shaping business and the global economy, from startup growth and changing markets to international trade and policy. My work focuses on breaking down complex developments into clear, practical insights and understanding what they could mean for businesses, investors, and the wider economy.

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