Trump's Greenland Flag Deal Sparks Backlash

Trump's deal to overlay U.S. flag on Greenland sparks anger over sovereignty claims.

Sep 19, 2026

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Trump's Greenland Flag Deal Sparks Backlash

Trump's deal to overlay U.S. flag on Greenland sparks anger over sovereignty claims.

In brief

Trump's deal to overlay U.S. flag on Greenland sparks anger over sovereignty claims. Trump's deal with Denmark for military access in Greenland faces backlash as Greenlanders reject U.S. ownership claims. Originally reported by Newsweek.

Trump Announces Greenland Deal

Trump Announces Greenland Deal

President Donald Trump announced a deal with Denmark to boost U.S. military presence in Greenland, claiming permanent control over security and all needs on the territory.

Greenland Sovereignty Concerns

Orla Joelson, a Greenland sovereignty champion, condemned Trump's suggestion that the U.S. now owns Greenland, calling it 'shameless propaganda' and stressing the island remains Danish territory.

“this is shameless propaganda”

Katie Miller's Flag Post

Katie Miller, wife of Stephen Miller, posted a map with the U.S. flag over Greenland, prompting criticism that the U.S. does not own the territory and the image misrepresents Greenland's sovereignty.

“this is shameless propaganda”

Trump's UN Claim

A flag of Greenland is on display Qoornoq, Greenland on September 6, 2026 during a visit by European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen (back L), Greenla

Trump claimed at the UN that the U.S. had agreed with Denmark and Greenland for permanent security control, stating the deal would prevent adversaries from building military bases in Greenland.

“This agreement, made with the Kingdom of Denmark an incredible, beautiful country, and the Greenland people itself, gives the United States permanent control over security and all of the needs on that territory.”

Denmark's Optimism

Danish Foreign Minister Lars Løkke Rasmussen expressed optimism about the deal, stating Copenhagen expected it to be signed soon and benefit Greenland, Denmark, and the United States.

“Next week could be a good week … for Greenland, Denmark, and the United States alike.”

Sovereignty Debate

Greenlanders and Denmark argue the deal preserves their sovereignty and right to self-determination, while the U.S. claims permanent security control without transferring ownership.

Existing Agreement

The deal appears to extend the 1951 agreement allowing U.S. military bases in Greenland, with no transfer of sovereignty but enhanced security restrictions for adversaries.

U.S. State Department Statement

The U.S. State Department called the deal an 'unprecedented agreement' that guarantees U.S. security interests in the Arctic at no cost to taxpayers and excludes adversaries from Greenland.

“President Trump has obtained a historic deal that no other U.S. President in history could have delivered, completely and permanently satisfying all U.S. demands.”

Greenland's Prime Minister

Greenland's Prime Minister Jens-Frederik Nielsen stated the deal benefits all three governments and recognizes Greenland's interests, while Denmark requires parliamentary approval.

What it means

Trump's deal with Denmark for military access in Greenland faces backlash as Greenlanders reject U.S. ownership claims.

Read the original on Newsweek

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