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Greenland Welcomes US Military Pact but Trust Still Shaky
The pact could reopen Cold War-era bases and bring new spending, but Greenlanders say trust in Washington still needs rebuilding.
On Wednesday, Greenland, Denmark, and the United States signed a military pact to expand Arctic defense, aiming to resolve anxiety following President Donald Trump's previous threats to seize the island.
The agreement allows the United States to reopen Cold War-era bases in Narsarsuaq and Mestersvig, reversing decades of reduction from the 17 installations and more than 10,000 personnel maintained during the Cold War.
Kujalleq Mayor Malene Vahl Rasmussen stated, "You can't simply say, 'Okay, we've signed this, so now we trust you again'," highlighting resident concerns that military expansion could disrupt traditional hunting and fishing grounds.
Greenlandic MP Naaja Nathanielsen welcomed the outcome as "very sensible," though resident Jensia Dam-Davidsen remains wary, noting Denmark has significantly increased Arctic military presence since Trump's threats peaked in January.
Renewed spending and employment opportunities may benefit the territory's 57,000 residents, as the pact promises greater security and economic potential for the Arctic population going forward.