U.S. President Donald Trump has paused his threats to impose tariffs on European exports over Greenland, ruling out the use of force and suggesting a deal could resolve the dispute over the Danish territory.
Speaking in Davos, Switzerland, Trump said Western Arctic allies could reach a long-term agreement that satisfies U.S. security and mineral interests while blocking Russian and Chinese influence in the region.
“It’s a deal that everybody’s very happy with,” Trump told reporters. “It’s the ultimate long-term deal. It puts everybody in a really good position, especially regarding security and minerals.”
Trump’s comments came after a meeting with Dutch Prime Minister Mark Rutte, during which Greenland’s political status was not discussed. Rutte said Trump focused on protecting the Arctic from Chinese and Russian expansion.
Earlier, Trump had spent over an hour issuing threats to countries concerned by his push to acquire Greenland. European diplomats said his sudden shift in tone eases tensions but does not resolve the underlying dispute.
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Denmark stressed that any agreement must respect Greenlandic self-determination and the integrity of the kingdom. Foreign Minister Lars Lokke Rasmussen said the issue should be resolved through private diplomacy, not social media.
Greenland’s government has not publicly commented on the developments.
Trump said he tasked Vice President JD Vance, Secretary of State Marco Rubio, and envoy Steve Witkoff to continue discussions.
The shift in approach boosted financial markets. The S&P 500 rose 1.16% in a single day, marking its largest gain in two months. Markets had reacted negatively to Trump’s hawkish Greenland remarks earlier this week.
Trump dominates Davos agenda
Trump’s remarks on Greenland overshadowed his Davos visit. He also criticized European countries on issues from wind energy to trade deficits, while emphasizing U.S. military strength.
Calling Greenland a “small ask” over a “piece of ice,” Trump argued that no nation besides the U.S. could secure the territory. He repeatedly stressed his vision of expanding U.S. influence in the Arctic while claiming his approach strengthens NATO allies.
Esther Ososanya is an investigative journalist with Pinnacle Daily, reporting across health, business, environment, metro, Fct and crime. Known for her bold, empathetic storytelling, she uncovers hidden truths, challenges broken systems, and gives voice to overlooked Nigerians. Her work drives national conversations and demands accountability one powerful story at a time.
