NATO's Rutte eased U.S.-Europe tensions after Trump demanded Greenland and threatened tariffs, securing a deal on Arctic security.

At the 2026 World Economic Forum, NATO Secretary General Mark Rutte defused a diplomatic rift with U.S. President Donald Trump, who had demanded full ownership of Greenland and threatened tariffs on European nations. After private talks, Trump announced a "framework of a future deal" on Arctic security, withdrawing his demands. Rutte’s personal diplomacy, including direct messaging and strategic engagement, earned him the nickname "Trump whisperer" and helped prevent a major escalation in transatlantic relations.