Bessent Reveals Greenland Secrets
Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent said Sunday that any future agreement involving Greenland would represent a significant improvement over past arrangements and would clearly favor the United States under President Donald Trump.
Speaking on ABC News’ This Week, Bessent said the framework under discussion goes well beyond existing agreements and would deliver broader economic and strategic benefits for America.
The comments followed a recent meeting between President Trump and Mark Rutte at the World Economic Forum in Davos, Switzerland. After that meeting, Trump publicly acknowledged discussions surrounding a future framework related to Greenland.
While the administration has emphasized the strategic importance of Greenland to U.S. national security, officials have said details of any agreement are still being developed. Questions involving governance, long-term access, and economic cooperation remain unresolved.
In recent weeks, the president has taken a more measured tone on the issue, stepping back from earlier aggressive language and easing warnings about potential tariffs on European nations. Administration officials say the focus remains on negotiation rather than confrontation.
Canada, China, and Trade Concerns
Bessent also addressed President Trump’s warning that Canada could face steep tariffs if it proceeds with expanded trade arrangements involving China.
Reports indicate Canada has recently reached an arrangement with China that reduces tariffs on Chinese electric vehicles while lowering import duties on Canadian farm goods. Bessent said the deal raises questions about fair trade enforcement and access to U.S. markets.
He argued that the United States cannot allow loopholes that could enable an influx of low-cost Chinese goods into American markets. Bessent pointed to the United States-Mexico-Canada Agreement, noting that the agreement is expected to be reviewed and renegotiated later this year.
Bessent criticized Canadian Prime Minister Mark Carney, saying Canada’s leadership should prioritize domestic economic stability and fair trade practices over international signaling.
NATO, Europe, and Global Trade
Asked about tensions with NATO allies, Bessent said President Trump remains focused on strengthening the alliance by encouraging greater burden-sharing among member nations.
He noted that the United States has historically contributed more resources and personnel than many European partners, particularly during operations in Afghanistan, while continuing diplomatic efforts related to the Russia-Ukraine conflict.
Bessent also pointed to trade inconsistencies involving India, stating that while the U.S. has taken steps to discourage purchases of Russian oil, European nations continue to import refined energy products connected to Russian supply chains.
Minnesota Incident Draws National Attention
Bessent also commented on the death of Alex Pretti following an encounter with federal law enforcement in Minneapolis over the weekend.
He called the incident tragic and said federal authorities are reviewing the circumstances. Bessent criticized Minnesota Governor Tim Walz, arguing that state leadership contributed to heightened tensions surrounding recent demonstrations.
Bessent said he was previously denied a state police security detail during a visit and expressed concern that organized groups may be escalating unrest. He also stated that law enforcement reports indicate Pretti was carrying a firearm and ammunition at the time of the incident.
Governor Walz has said the state continues to investigate fraud and public safety concerns, emphasizing that Minnesota officials are working with law enforcement while warning against political distractions that could hinder those efforts.
