## Arctic Security Discussions & Potential Agreements (January 23, 2026)
This report analyzes recent discussions regarding Arctic security, focusing on potential agreements involving the United States, NATO allies, Russia, and China, as of January 23, 2026. A search for breaking news as of 2026/01/23 01:55:46 revealed no significant updates beyond the data provided in the original source.
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NATO & Arctic Security Planning
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NATO is actively considering plans to enhance security in the Arctic region. NATO Secretary General Jens Stoltenberg expressed hope for a concrete plan to be presented at the upcoming NATO summit in Ankara in July.NATO has increased its military presence in the Arctic in response to growing Russian activity and increasing strategic interest from China.
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United Kingdom’s Commitment to Arctic Security
The United Kingdom has affirmed its commitment to bolstering Arctic security. British Prime Minister keir Starmer communicated to Dutch Prime Minister Mark Rutte on January 18, 2026, that the UK is prepared to fully contribute to ensuring security in the Arctic. The UK government has consistently emphasized the importance of maintaining stability in the region,particularly in light of climate change and increased geopolitical competition.##
Donald Trump’s Proposals: “Golden Dome” & Mineral Access
Former U.S. President Donald Trump has proposed a potential deal involving a missile-defense system (“Golden Dome”) and access to critical minerals in exchange for limiting Russian and Chinese influence in the Arctic. Trump suggested this deal could address his concerns about resource exploitation and strategic positioning by Russia and china. Reuters reported on Trump’s initial proposal in January 2024, indicating this concept has been under discussion for some time.
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Greenland, Denmark, and the United States: Existing Agreements & Future Negotiations
Negotiations regarding potential agreements, particularly concerning Greenland, are ongoing between the United States, Denmark, and Greenland itself. Dutch Prime Minister Mark Rutte stated that discussions about mineral exploitation were not part of his meeting with Trump, and specific negotiations regarding Greenland would continue through established channels. The U.S.State Department outlines the long-standing relationship with Greenland, rooted in a 1951 agreement.
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The 1951 US-Denmark Agreement & US Military Presence in Greenland
The 1951 agreement between the United States and Denmark grants the U.S. the right to construct and maintain military bases in Greenland and allows for freedom of movement within Greenlandic territory, provided Denmark and Greenland are informed of U.S. actions. Currently, the U.S. operates a base at Pituffik (Thule air Base) in northern Greenland. According to Marc Jacobsen, a professor at the Royal Danish Defence Collage, the current agreement already permits a level of U.S. activity comparable to that seen during the cold war,when the U.S. maintained 17 bases in Greenland. Forces news reported on the ancient scale of the US presence in Greenland, highlighting the existing framework for military cooperation.
