Greenland’s Prime Minister, Mute Egede, has reiterated the Arctic island’s commitment to independence, emphasizing that it does not wish to align itself with either the United States or Denmark. This statement was made in response to recent remarks by US President-elect Donald Trump, who suggested the possibility of acquiring Greenland through military or economic measures.
During a press conference with Danish Prime Minister Mette Frederiksen, Egede firmly stated that Greenland’s future rests solely with its people. “Greenland belongs to the Greenlandic people. We don’t want to be Danish or American; we want to be Greenlandic,” he declared, underlining the island’s aspiration to achieve full independence and self-governance.
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Egede also clarified that Greenland remains open to partnerships but on its own terms. “This doesn’t mean we’re severing all ties with Denmark,” he noted, highlighting the continued relationship with the Danish government despite the island’s pursuit of autonomy.
The push for Greenland’s independence has intensified in recent years, fueled in part by revelations of Denmark’s colonial mistreatment of the predominantly Inuit population. Although Greenland remains a self-governing territory under Denmark, a 2009 referendum granted it the right to claim independence.
Trump’s recent remarks on Greenland’s strategic importance, particularly due to its Arctic location, have heightened tensions. The US already operates a military base in northern Greenland, a critical point of interest as global powers like Russia and China expand their presence in the Arctic.
Greenland’s leadership has dismissed any notion of the US acquiring the territory. Trump had previously attempted to purchase Greenland during his presidency in 2019, a proposal rejected by Denmark. Recent speculation has been fueled by Donald Trump Jr.’s visit to Greenland, sparking concerns that the incoming administration may revisit the idea of controlling the island.
Danish Prime Minister Frederiksen acknowledged the growing discourse around Greenlandic independence and reiterated the strong alliance between Denmark and the US. However, she stressed that Denmark respects Greenland’s sovereignty and is committed to maintaining cooperative relations with its government.
