US halts tariffs after Trump, NATO chief outline Greenland deal framework

US President Donald Trump announced on Wednesday that he and NATO Secretary-General Mark Rutte have “formed the framework of a future deal with respect to Greenland,” signaling a major shift in the escalating dispute over the strategically important Arctic territory.

In a post on his Truth Social platform, Trump said the agreement followed a “very productive meeting” with Rutte and suggested the proposed arrangement could benefit both the United States and NATO allies.

“This solution, if consummated, will be a great one for the United States of America, and all NATO Nations,” Trump wrote, without providing details of the framework.

Trump also said that, as a result of the negotiations, he would no longer impose tariffs on European allied countries that were scheduled to begin on February 1. He said additional information would be released as discussions progress.

“Further information will be made available as discussions progress,” he added.

The announcement represents a sharp turn in the weeks-long controversy over Trump’s persistent attempts to acquire Greenland, an autonomous territory of Denmark and a NATO member. Denmark and Greenland have repeatedly insisted that the island is not for sale.

The dispute intensified in recent weeks as several European NATO countries increased their military presence in Greenland amid growing concerns over strategic control of the Arctic region.

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The framework announcement comes a day after Trump shared a private message exchange between himself and Rutte. In the message, Rutte said he was “committed to finding a way forward on Greenland,” adding: “Can’t wait to see you.”

Trump has repeatedly ruled out the use of military force to seize Greenland but has emphasized his willingness to negotiate. He previously described Denmark as “ungrateful” for refusing to consider selling the territory to the United States.

The emerging framework signals a potential de-escalation of tensions, but key questions remain about what the proposed deal would entail and whether Denmark and Greenland would accept any agreement involving the territory’s future.