Trump Signals Possible Greenland Deal, Drops Tariff Threats After Nato Talks

US President Donald Trump said a “framework of a future deal” on Greenland had been discussed following talks with Nato, as he backed away from threats to impose tariffs on European allies opposing his ambitions for the Arctic island.

Posting on Truth Social, Trump described his meeting with Nato Secretary General Mark Rutte as “very productive” and said it had produced the outline of a potential agreement covering Greenland and the wider Arctic region. He offered few details and did not indicate any deal granting the US ownership of the autonomous Danish territory.

Diplomatic sources told US media there was no agreement on American control of Greenland. Nato officials also said Danish sovereignty was not discussed during the talks.

Danish Foreign Minister Lars Løkke Rasmussen struck a cautious tone, saying the day had “ended on a better note” and calling for dialogue that addresses US security concerns in the Arctic while respecting Denmark’s “red lines”. Trump later suggested the talks could involve cooperation on mineral rights and expanded security arrangements, citing Greenland’s strategic location and rare earth resources. He also floated the possibility of European allies collaborating on a proposed US missile defence system.

Following the meeting, Trump said he would not proceed with planned tariffs on European countries, including the UK and Denmark, which he had previously threatened as leverage in Greenland negotiations. Speaking at the World Economic Forum in Davos, Trump reiterated his desire to acquire Greenland but ruled out using military force, saying negotiations would be pursued instead. European leaders, including French President Emmanuel Macron, have criticised Trump’s rhetoric and warned that it risks further straining transatlantic relations.