'Framework of a future deal' on Greenland in discussion but sovereignty remains red line

U.S. President Donald Trump said on Wednesday that talks with NATO Secretary General Mark Rutte produced "the framework of a future deal with respect to Greenland" and announced he would not move forward with tariffs on eight European countries that were scheduled to take effect on February 1.

A day later, Trump told Fox Business that the White House is negotiating a deal to secure "total access" to Denmark's Greenland with no time limit.

In response, Danish Prime Minister Mette Frederiksen said on Thursday that she welcomed the talk between Trump and Rutte, but pointed out that the NATO chief does not have a mandate to negotiate on behalf of Denmark or Greenland, reaffirming that Greenland's future should be decided by Greenland and that sovereignty is not negotiable.

"NATO is fully aware of the Kingdom of Denmark's position. We can negotiate about everything politically – security, investments, the economy. But we cannot negotiate about our sovereignty," she said.

Greenland's Prime Minister Jens-Frederik Nielsen said at a press conference on Thursday that he was unaware of the contents of the so-called "framework" agreement announced by Trump following his meeting with Rutte the previous day.

NATO's Supreme Allied Commander Europe Alexus Grynkewich said at a briefing on Thursday that the organization is ready to draw up plans for an Arctic protection mission if requested.

In early December 2025, NATO updated its regional boundaries and integrated its Nordic nations under the U.S.-based Joint Force Command Norfolk.

(With input from agencies)