In a significant diplomatic development, Foreign Secretary Yvette Cooper has confirmed that former US President Donald Trump will not gain control of Greenland under a newly proposed NATO agreement. The revelation came during an interview on BBC Radio 4, where Cooper outlined plans for an 'Arctic sentry' operation designed to bolster shared security in the region.
Arctic Security Proposal
Cooper explained that the proposed NATO initiative mirrors existing frameworks like the Baltic and Eastern sentries, which coordinate allied nations to address collective threats. 'What we have proposed is a work through NATO on a new Arctic sentry,' she stated, emphasising that this collaborative approach would ensure Greenland and Denmark retain full sovereignty over the territory.
Trump's Previous Demands
This agreement marks a notable reversal from Trump's earlier stance. During a speech at the World Economic Forum, he asserted that only the United States could adequately secure Greenland, saying: 'The fact is, no nation or group of nations is in a position to secure Greenland other than the United States.' However, following discussions with NATO Secretary General Mark Rutte, Trump later announced a 'concept of a deal,' signalling a shift in his position.
Mineral Rights Clarification
Cooper further clarified that the proposed deal does not involve granting the US access to Greenland's valuable mineral resources. She confirmed she was 'not aware of any discussions' that would lead to American rights over the minerals beneath Greenland's icy surface, reinforcing the commitment to Danish and Greenlandic sovereignty.
Political Context
The announcement comes amid ongoing political tensions, with figures like Keir Starmer stating he 'will not yield' to Trump over Greenland. The proposed NATO operation aims to preempt unilateral actions by fostering international cooperation, potentially cooling the heated rhetoric surrounding the territory.
This development underscores the strategic importance of the Arctic region and highlights how multilateral agreements can counter individual ambitions, preserving stability and sovereignty in geopolitically sensitive areas.
