Lithuanian President Proposes Joint Arctic Security Deal to Resolve Greenland Dispute Amid Ukraine War Concerns

Nausėda Calls for Unified Arctic Security

Lithuanian President Gitanas Nausėda has proposed a joint security agreement for the Arctic and North Atlantic regions as a potential resolution to the escalating dispute between the United States and Europe over Greenland. Speaking to Reuters on Tuesday, January 20, 2026, on the sidelines of the World Economic Forum in Davos, Switzerland, President Nausėda underscored the urgency of addressing the standoff, stating that it 'overshadows the war in Ukraine and plays into Russia's hands'. He urged Washington to de-escalate tensions, emphasizing that a cooperative approach is the 'best way' forward.

The Greenland Standoff: A Transatlantic Rift

The dispute centers on the United States' ambition, under President Donald Trump, to acquire Greenland, an autonomous territory of the Kingdom of Denmark. This issue, which Trump had previously raised during his first presidency, escalated significantly in early 2026. President Trump reportedly threatened to impose a 25% import tax on European Union goods if Denmark did not cede Greenland, and he repeatedly refused to rule out military action. The leadership of Greenland and Danish Prime Minister Mette Frederiksen have consistently stated that the island is not for sale. The situation has drawn strong condemnation from various European leaders, including French President Emmanuel Macron, who criticized the US approach.

Distraction from the War in Ukraine

President Nausėda's comments highlight a growing concern among European allies that the Greenland dispute diverts critical attention and resources from the ongoing conflict in Ukraine. He explicitly warned that the transatlantic row could inadvertently strengthen Russia's position on the global stage. Nausėda has been a vocal advocate for strong support for Ukraine, previously noting Russia's 'appetites' in peace talks and the Kremlin's perceived unwillingness to end the war.

Recent De-escalation and Lingering Doubts

Following intense international pressure and discussions at the World Economic Forum, President Trump announced a de-escalation of the crisis. He publicly ruled out the use of military force to acquire Greenland and subsequently dropped his threats of tariffs after a meeting with NATO Secretary General Mark Rutte. Trump claimed a 'framework of a future deal' had been reached regarding Arctic security. However, Greenlandic politicians have reportedly denied the existence of such a deal, describing Trump's statements as 'completely crazy,' and suggesting the 'deal' merely re-emphasized pre-existing commitments and European nations' pledges to increase their own defense of Greenland.