Trump Strikes 'Fantastic' Framework Deal to Acquire Greenland

Speaking on the sidelines of the World Economic Forum, Trump described the understanding as a step toward U.S. control of the Arctic island, which he has long argued is vital for American national security. He said the framework would be "really fantastic" for all parties and indicated that tariffs he had threatened against European nations over the issue would be held off. 

"I won't use force," Trump told reporters after meeting with Rutte, adding that he was seeking "immediate negotiations" to discuss the acquisition of the world's largest island. 

The announcement marked a de-escalation from Trump's recent rhetoric, which included threats of sweeping tariffs on European countries and warnings that the U.S. might take Greenland "the hard way" if necessary. Those comments had rattled allies and contributed to market volatility. 

Trump has repeatedly cited strategic concerns, saying the U.S. must own Greenland to prevent Russia or China from gaining influence there and to properly defend the territory. He dismissed existing defense agreements as insufficient, arguing that ownership, not leases, is required for full protection. 

Danish officials reiterated their opposition to any sale. Foreign Minister Lars Løkke Rasmussen called Trump's ruling out of force "positive" but said Copenhagen's position remains unchanged: Greenland is not for sale. 

Greenland's government, which has authority over internal affairs, has also firmly rejected the idea of becoming U.S. territory. Details of the reported framework were not immediately disclosed, and it was unclear whether Danish or Greenlandic leaders were directly involved in the discussions with Rutt. Wall Street rallied following Trump's comments, with stocks rebounding after he signaled the tariff threats would be paused.