The United States is reportedly negotiating with Denmark for access to three additional military bases in Greenland, according to a top Pentagon general.
The push signals a renewed strategic focus on the Arctic under President Donald Trump as U.S. officials move to counter growing threats from Russia and China while strengthening the U.S. defensive posture in a critical region.
Air Force Gen. Gregory Guillot, head of U.S. Northern Command, last month told lawmakers the Pentagon is seeking "increased access to different bases across Greenland" due to the island's rising importance in global security.
"I'm working with our department and others to try to develop more ports, more airfields, which leads to more options for our [War] secretary [Pete Hegseth] and for the president, should we need them up in the Arctic," Guillot said, emphasizing the need for expanded capabilities as Arctic competition intensifies.
The proposed expansion would mark the first significant U.S. military buildup in Greenland in decades.
Plans include access to at least three locations, including former American installations at Narsarsuaq and Kangerlussuaq, both of which offer valuable infrastructure such as deepwater ports and long runways, The New York Times reported Wednesday.
Currently, the U.S. operates only one installation on the island — Pituffik Space Base — a remote missile defense site that plays a key role in tracking potential threats from adversaries.
The effort builds on a longstanding 1951 defense agreement between the U.S. and Denmark, which allows American forces broad access to operate, build, and station troops in designated areas.
Officials say that agreement remains highly favorable to U.S. interests and provides a strong legal framework for expansion.
Guillot told Congress the discussions with Denmark and Greenland have been "very productive," with no major resistance reported so far.
The Trump administration has long argued that Greenland is vital to U.S. national security, particularly as Arctic routes become more accessible and contested.
Trump previously floated acquiring the island outright, underscoring its strategic value.
The renewed push for military access comes as geopolitical rivals increase their presence in the Arctic.
Russia has expanded its military footprint across the region, while China has sought to establish economic and scientific footholds that U.S. officials warn could carry security risks.
Guillot said expanding U.S. capabilities in Greenland would allow for improved missile defense, enhanced surveillance, and greater flexibility for special operations forces and naval deployments.
"We're very well established in Canada and Alaska," he noted, but added that more capability along Greenland's corridor would be critical as a "first line of defense."
Despite cooperation at the government level, some Greenland residents have expressed unease about a larger U.S. military presence.
Still, experts note that under existing agreements, Denmark and Greenland have limited ability to block American expansion if Washington deems it necessary.
For Trump, the move reflects a broader America First approach, ensuring the U.S. is prepared to defend its interests without relying on uncertain international partners.
Charlie McCarthy ✉
Charlie McCarthy, a writer/editor at Newsmax, has nearly 40 years of experience covering news, sports, and politics.
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