Greenland's Parliament ratifies the security agreement with the US, despite criticism from the opposition, which questioned its economic benefits

Greenland’s Parliament ratified on Tuesday the security agreement concluded this year with the United States and Denmark, under which Washington is expanding its military role on the Arctic island. The vote in Nuuk ended with 16 votes in favor, none against and seven abstentions.

The agreement is intended to end tensions caused by repeated threats from U.S. President Donald Trump to take control of Greenland. The document allows for the opening of two new U.S. military bases and the deployment of the “Golden Dome” missile defense system, while reaffirming Denmark’s sovereignty and Greenlanders’ right to self-determination.

Greenland’s Foreign Minister, Mute Egede, described the ratification as an important step, in a context in which peace and stability can no longer be taken for granted. The pro-independence opposition party Naleraq criticized the agreement, however, arguing that it brings no economic benefits to the island.

The Danish Parliament is due to debate the document in first reading on November 11, while the final vote is scheduled for November 19. The agreement will enter into force after ratification by Greenland and Denmark, without requiring approval from the U.S. Senate.