Denmark will refuse to back any deal involving an increased United States military presence in Greenland that crosses “red lines” about its sovereignty, the country’s prime minister has said. Talks are expected to take place between the Trump administration, Denmark and Greenland on the outline of a “framework” agreement for the future security of the Arctic island. European leaders are hopeful the negotiations will resolve the dispute that has rocked transatlantic relations close to breaking point in recent days. The breakthrough which averted a confrontation between the US and Europe was brokered during a meeting between Mr Trump and Nato secretary general Mark Rutte in Davos, Switzerland, on Wednesday. Initial media reports suggest the outline of the deal sold to Mr Trump could include US bases on Greenland being treated as sovereign American territory.

Source: The Irish Times January 22, 2026 21:59 UTC