Pocket by pocket, then cash: How Trump plans to gradually take Greenland from Denmark

Trump Greenland plan: US President Donald Trump has reportedly floated a plan to gradually secure influence over Greenland, potentially offering residents cash incentives as part of his vision for a “future deal” with the Arctic island.

Trump's New Plan: Greenlanders Could Receive Up to $1 Million Each

Greenlanders could receive as much as $1 million each if they agree to back the plan to join the United States, as Trump simultaneously calls off his recent tariff threats, as per a report.

Trump Discusses Framework with NATO Secretary General

The proposal follows discussions between Trump and NATO Secretary General Mark Rutte, in which the US president outlined what he described as a framework for future cooperation over Greenland and the broader Arctic region.


Senior officials indicated that one option under consideration would give the US sovereignty over small areas of Greenland, allowing military operations, training exercises, and intelligence gathering without consulting Denmark, similar to the UK bases in Cyprus, as per The Sun report.

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Possible US Military Operations in Greenland

Some details of the plan suggest it could also allow development in Greenland’s mineral-rich regions. Rutte, who has been mediating negotiations between the US, Denmark, and Greenland, emphasized that talks will continue, particularly on Arctic security and shared NATO responsibilities.

Denmark Stresses Greenland’s Sovereignty Cannot Be Negotiated

Denmark’s Prime Minister, Mette Frederiksen, stressed that Greenland’s sovereignty cannot be negotiated, though political, security, and economic issues remain open for discussion. Danish Foreign Minister Lars Lokke Rasmussen echoed this sentiment, calling US ownership of Greenland a “red line” that will not happen, as per The Sun report.

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Compromise Removes Trump's Threats of Military Action and Tariffs

The plan appears to be a compromise of sorts, as it also removes Trump’s earlier threats of a military invasion and punitive tariffs on allies who disagree with him. Meanwhile, international observers, including Russia, have watched the developments closely, though Vladimir Putin noted Trump’s intentions on Greenland were of no concern to Moscow.

Next Steps for US-Denmark-Greenland Negotiations

While the specifics of Trump’s “framework” remain under discussion, both the US and Danish officials appear focused on balancing security in the Arctic with respect for Greenland’s territorial integrity. Any agreement, Rutte said, would also require NATO allies to step up their engagement in Arctic security, with results expected later this year.

FAQs

Why is Trump offering Greenland cash incentives?
To encourage support for a plan giving the US influence over Greenland without causing conflict.

How much could Greenlanders receive?
Reports say up to $1 million each if they back the plan.