Greenland to Trump: No Military Takeover—We Want Our Freedom!

Greenland’s Prime Minister Mette Egede has reaffirmed that the Arctic island does not seek to be either American or Danish, underscoring its growing desire for independence.
This statement came in response to U.S. President-elect Donald Trump’s recent comments about the potential acquisition of Greenland, including his refusal to rule out the use of military or economic force.
At a press conference alongside Danish Prime Minister Mette Frederiksen, Egede made it clear that Greenland’s future lies in the hands of its people.
“Greenland is for the Greenlandic people. We do not want to be Danish, we do not want to be American. We want to be Greenlandic,” Egede asserted, emphasizing the island’s aspiration for full independence and to be “the master of our own house.”
The Prime Minister also clarified that while Greenland is open to cooperation, it would do so on its own terms. “That doesn’t mean we are cutting all ties with Denmark,” he said, acknowledging that the island still maintains relations with the Danish government despite its push for autonomy.
Greenland’s desire for independence has gained momentum in recent years, especially as Denmark’s colonial abuses against the predominantly Inuit population have come to light.
Though Greenland is still a self-governing Danish territory, it gained the right to claim independence through a 2009 referendum.
Trump’s recent comments regarding Greenland’s strategic importance, particularly its proximity to the Arctic, have sparked tensions.
The U.S. maintains a military base in Greenland’s northern region, a critical area of interest as Russia and China extend their influence in the Arctic. The U.S. has expressed interest in acquiring the territory, a notion rejected by Greenland’s leadership.
Trump had previously attempted to purchase Greenland during his first term in office in 2019, a proposal that was rejected by Denmark.
Donald Trump Jr., the U.S. president-elect’s son, recently visited the territory, further fueling speculation that the incoming administration may push for control over Greenland once in office.
Danish Prime Minister Mette Frederiksen, while acknowledging the growing debate over Greenlandic independence, emphasized the close relationship between Denmark and the U.S., describing the U.S. as Denmark’s “closest ally.”