Greenland’s self-governance precludes foreign control, its premier asserts.
Greenland’s pro-independence leader has dismissed US President-elect Donald Trump’s renewed proposal to purchase the Arctic island from Denmark.
Trump has resurrected his prior bid to acquire the resource-rich territory as he prepares for his January 20th inauguration. “Greenland is an incredible place, and the people will benefit tremendously if, and when, it becomes part of our nation,” Trump recently posted on his Truth Social platform, pledging to “protect it, and cherish it, from a very vicious outside world.”
Greenland’s premier, Mute Bourup Egede, a vocal proponent of the island’s independence, reiterated that Greenland should remain free from foreign domination.
“Let me reiterate – Greenland belongs to the people of Greenland. Our pursuit of independence is our own affair,” Egede wrote on Facebook Tuesday.
“While others, including Danes and Americans, are entitled to their views, we must not be sidetracked by sensationalism and external pressures. Our future is ours to shape,” he added. Egede reaffirmed his government’s commitment to Greenland’s eventual separation from Denmark.
The former Danish colony, home to approximately 57,000 people, has enjoyed self-governing status since 1979. A 2009 referendum granted Greenland the right to declare independence.
Trump initially suggested buying Greenland in 2019, a proposal rejected by both the local government and Copenhagen officials. The president-elect’s son, Donald Trump Jr., made a surprise visit to the island on Tuesday. “Greenland loves America and Trump!!! Incredible people with an equally awesome reception,” he posted on X.
Danish Prime Minister Mette Frederiksen expressed support for US investment in Greenland but did not endorse Trump’s renewed interest. “Our government’s position is clear: Greenland’s future should be determined by Greenlanders. Greenland belongs to the Greenlanders,” she told TV 2.
“The United States remains Denmark’s most crucial ally. This discussion does not alter that,” the prime minister added.
Trump has previously advanced other ambitious foreign policy initiatives, such as advocating for Canada’s incorporation as America’s “51st state” and regaining US control of the Panama Canal. These proposals have been rejected by Canadian and Panamanian leaders.