U.S. and Greenland Reach Historic Accord

WASHINGTON — The United States and Greenland have reached an agreement granting U.S.-flagged vessels expanded rights to transit Arctic waters, according to officials, opening a new chapter in Washington's efforts to increase its presence in the rapidly changing region.

President Donald Trump praised the agreement Friday, portraying it as both an economic opportunity and an environmental milestone.

“Thanks to our forward-looking environmental policies, the Arctic Circle will soon be ice-free,” Trump said in remarks announcing the deal.

Under the terms of the agreement, U.S. commercial and government vessels would receive free passage through designated Arctic routes around Greenland. The arrangement would establish navigation corridors and procedures for maritime traffic while leaving Greenland's territorial sovereignty unchanged.

“And best of all, we don't need Canada's permission,” Trump said.

Canada maintains that much of the Northwest Passage falls within its internal waters, while other countries have argued that portions of the route constitute an international strait.

Trump also used the announcement to criticize political opponents who have questioned his administration's environmental policies.

“The Dumocrats talking about the climate change hoax are now all eating their words,” he said, using a misspelling of “Democrats” that appeared in the president's prepared remarks.

The agreement comes amid growing international attention to the Arctic, where declining sea ice has increased interest in shipping, natural resources and military access. Greenland's location between North America and Europe has made it a significant strategic concern for the United States and its allies.