16-0 Vote: Greenland Approves Trump's Security Deal, Clears Way For Two US Bases

Greenland's parliament has approved a security agreement with the United States and Denmark, paving the way for an expanded American military presence on the strategically important Arctic island after months of pressure from US President Donald Trump to bring the territory under American control.

The agreement was approved on Tuesday with 16 votes in favour and none against, while seven lawmakers abstained. The deal, signed by the United States, Denmark and Greenland in September, aims to strengthen security in the Arctic and North Atlantic while easing tensions over Trump's repeated calls to acquire the mineral-rich island, which is a self-governing territory under Danish sovereignty.

Under the agreement, the United States will be allowed to expand its military role in Greenland, including establishing two new military bases. It also paves the way for Trump's proposed Golden Dome missile defence system, which is intended to strengthen America's missile defence capabilities. However, the deal reaffirms that Greenland will remain under Danish sovereignty and that its people have the right to decide their political future, including independence.

Greenland's Foreign Minister Mute Egede described the parliamentary approval as an important step, warning that peace and stability could no longer be taken for granted.

"We must accept that peace and stability are no longer something we can take for granted," Egede told lawmakers shortly before the vote.

Despite the approval, the agreement faced criticism from the opposition Naleraq party, which supports Greenland's independence. Its chair, Pele Broberg, questioned the economic benefits of the arrangement, arguing that Greenland had not secured sufficient advantages from the deal.

"We are looking for a better agreement that we can benefit from when we become an independent state. But no economic benefit has been gained from the agreement," Broberg said.

The agreement follows Trump's repeated threats to take control of Greenland, including discussions in Washington about possible options for acquiring the territory. His remarks had alarmed European governments and triggered diplomatic efforts to ease tensions.

The deal must now clear further parliamentary procedures in Denmark. The Danish parliament is scheduled to hold its first reading on November 11, followed by a second reading and vote on November 19. The executive agreement will enter into force once Denmark and Greenland complete ratification. Approval from the US Senate is not required.