COPENHAGEN, March 5 (Reuters) – Greenland’s Prime Minister Mute Egede stated on Wednesday that the people of Greenland will decide their future, emphasizing their desire not to become Danes or Americans.
This news comes as a response to U.S. President Donald Trump’s continued interest in acquiring Greenland, which is currently a semi-autonomous territory of Denmark.
Egede expressed his thoughts during a Facebook post, stating, “We do not want to be Americans, nor Danes; we are Kalaallit (Greenlanders). The Americans and their leader must understand that.” His message was clear: Greenland is not for sale, nor can it simply be taken. The future of Greenland will be determined by its people.
Currently, the Greenland government is in a caretaker period before an election set for March 11. This upcoming campaign focuses heavily on the island’s aspirations for independence, particularly in light of Trump’s remarks regarding Greenland’s potential acquisition.
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Denmark’s foreign minister acknowledged Trump’s recognition of Greenland’s right to self-determination in a recent address to Congress, calling it “significant.”
Opinion polls also suggest that most Greenlanders oppose joining the United States, although many support the idea of becoming fully independent from Denmark. Denmark has made it clear that the Arctic island’s future is for its people to decide, and it is not for sale.
Greenlanders have largely brushed off Trump’s latest comments about taking over their island, viewing them as an opportunity to push for their independence. In the tranquil hallways of the University of Greenland in Nuuk, the capital, Trump’s remarks were met with skepticism.
Law student Peter Malik Henningsen said, “For me personally, it’s just something ridiculous he would say. I wouldn’t take it seriously because he’s basically all talk and no action.”
Henningsen wasn’t alone in his sentiment. Another law student, David Jensen, pointed out that Greenland is part of NATO and thus has allies, which alleviates his concerns about Trump’s unpredictable nature.
Political scientist Maria Ackren provided further insight, stating, “There is no panic. Here in Greenland, people are very calm, and you take one day at a time.” She expressed that Trump’s comments might be more dangerous for the broader world order rather than for Greenland specifically.
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In a recent policy speech, Trump reiterated his vision for the U.S., declaring Greenland strategically important and rich in minerals. At roughly a quarter the size of the mainland U.S., Greenland’s location in the Arctic makes it a vital point for any strategy involving potential missile routes between Russia and the U.S.
With a population of about 57,000, Trump described the people of Greenland as “incredible.” He expressed support for their right to determine their own future, stating, “If you choose, we welcome you into the United States of America.” However, he also indicated that if persuasion didn’t work, he would pursue the acquisition “one way or another,” indicating the potential for military action if necessary.
This isn’t the first time Trump has shown interest in Greenland. During his first term, he attempted to buy the island, an offer that was openly rejected by Danish authorities. Now, with the topic back on the table, Trump has made it clear that he wouldn’t rule out using military force to get what he wants.
Meanwhile, opinions on Trump within Greenland vary. Even figures who have expressed support for Trump, like Jorgen Boassen, believe Greenland should pursue a path toward statehood rather than joining the U.S. He stated, “Greenland should become a state in its own right.”
As election discussions continue, Aputsiaq Inuk Petersen, a hunter and fisherman, pointed out that Trump’s interest has elevated Greenland’s profile on the international stage. “It’s good for Greenland,” Petersen said. “Now everyone knows about Greenland and its people.”
In summary, Greenland’s leaders have made a strong assertion regarding their identity and self-determination, rejecting any notion of becoming part of the United States.
While Trump’s continued interest in Greenland raises questions about future relations, the people of this vast, icy landscape remain firm in their commitment to determine their own destiny. With an election on the horizon and discussions around independence gaining traction, the world watches closely as Greenland navigates its path forward.
Indeed, Greenland’s story is one of resilience and identity, as its leaders and citizens alike prepare to shape their future, free from external pressures. As they continue to carve out their narrative, one thing remains clear: the spirit of the Kalaallit people is unyielding, and they are proud to be Greenlanders first and foremost.