NUUK, Greenland (AP) — The Prime Minister of Greenland asserted on Wednesday that “Greenland belongs to us” and is not subject to acquisition or purchase, countering a statement from U.S. President Donald Trump, who mentioned that his administration backed the right of self-determination for the Arctic island — while also indicating that the United States intends to acquire the territory “one way or another.”
Prime Minister Múte Bourup Egede emphasized that the citizens of the island identify as Greenlandic, not American or Danish. In a post on Facebook written in Greenlandic and Danish, he stressed that the United States must comprehend this distinction.
The future direction of Greenland will be determined by its residents, he stated.
His message followed a speech from Trump, where he directly encouraged the people of Greenland, delivered to Congress just a week prior to the island’s parliamentary elections.
“We strongly support your right to shape your own future, and if you desire, we would welcome you into the United States of America,” Trump communicated.
“We will ensure your safety. We will enhance your wealth. Together, we will elevate Greenland to levels you have never imagined,” he continued.
However, Trump reiterated that his administration was “collaborating with all relevant parties to attempt to secure it,” alluding to his ambitions of acquiring Greenland from Denmark, which has been a steadfast U.S. ally.
“We genuinely need it for global security. And I believe we’re going to achieve that. One way or another, we will acquire it,” Trump remarked.
Many Greenlanders, residing on a vast, mineral-rich island that serves as a self-governing territory under Denmark, feel alarmed and insulted by Trump’s assertions of taking control of their homeland.
In response to Trump’s statements, Denmark’s foreign minister voiced on Wednesday that he doubted Greenlanders sought to detach from Denmark to become “an integrated part of America.”
Lars Løkke Rasmussen aimed for an optimistic outlook, remarking that he viewed Trump’s acknowledgement of Greenlanders’ right to self-determination as “the most critical aspect of that address.”
“I am quite hopeful regarding the decision that will originate from Greenland. Should they wish to reduce their ties to Denmark, we are facilitating that in order to establish a more equitable relationship,” the minister stated during his visit to Finland.
Løkke emphasized the significance of ensuring next week’s parliamentary elections are conducted freely and fairly “without any form of international interference.”
Greenlanders are set to vote on Tuesday. Trump’s recent remarks about the potential takeover of the island have sparked an unprecedented interest in complete independence from Denmark, making it a central topic in the ongoing campaign.
