Greenland Claps Back at Trump: ‘We’re Greenlandic, Not for Sale

Greenland’s Prime Minister stated that, while he has not yet communicated with President-elect Donald Trump, he is open to conversations about shared interests and common ground.

By Sheenu Gupta On Jan 11, 2025 Share with new partner:

Greenland’s Prime Minister, Múte B. Egede, firmly stated on Friday that the people of Greenland have no desire to become American citizens, emphasizing their distinct national identity. However, he acknowledged why U.S. President-elect Donald Trump might be interested in the Arctic territory, given its strategic importance in global geopolitics. Egede expressed openness to strengthening cooperation with Washington while making it clear that Greenland’s sovereignty remains a priority.

His remarks came in response to Trump’s recent statements suggesting he would not rule out using economic pressure or even force to bring Greenland under U.S. control. Trump framed his interest as a national security matter, citing the territory’s position in the North Atlantic and its increasing importance due to climate change. As Arctic sea ice continues to melt, new shipping routes have opened through the region, drawing significant attention from global powers. Western nations, including the U.S., have voiced concerns over Russia and China potentially expanding their influence in the Arctic, further heightening Greenland’s strategic relevance.

Despite the geopolitical interest in the mineral-rich, semi-autonomous Danish territory, Egede reaffirmed Greenland’s commitment to self-determination and maintaining its cultural and political independence.

Greenland’s Prime Minister, Múte B. Egede, acknowledged that while Greenland is geographically part of North America and often viewed by the U.S. as part of its sphere of influence, its people do not seek American citizenship. Though he has not spoken directly with President-elect Donald Trump, Egede expressed openness to discussions about shared interests, emphasizing the importance of cooperation through dialogue and mutual problem-solving.

Egede has been a vocal advocate for Greenland’s independence, frequently criticizing Denmark’s colonial legacy and its treatment of the Indigenous Inuit population. During a press conference alongside Danish Prime Minister Mette Frederiksen in Copenhagen, he reiterated his stance, stating, “Greenland belongs to the Greenlandic people. We do not want to be Danish. We do not want to be American. We want to be Greenlandic.”

Trump’s recent statements about potentially using economic pressure or force to acquire Greenland have caused unease not just in Denmark but across Europe. Given the U.S.’s role as a key NATO member and a close ally of the European Union, many Europeans were alarmed by the idea of the incoming American leader considering such aggressive actions toward a fellow ally.

However, Prime Minister Frederiksen highlighted a positive aspect of the situation, noting that the debate on Greenland’s independence and the renewed attention from the U.S. have drawn global interest in Greenland’s future. She expressed Denmark’s commitment to maintaining a strong alliance with the U.S., stating, “The U.S. is our closest ally, and we will do everything to continue a strong cooperation.”

The joint press conference took place following a pre-scheduled biannual meeting between Denmark, Greenland, and the Faroe Islands, not as a direct response to Trump’s remarks. However, tensions were further stirred earlier that week when Trump’s eldest son visited Greenland, arriving in a private plane branded with the “TRUMP” logo and distributing Make America Great Again hats to locals.

Danish public broadcaster DR reported that members of Trump’s team had allegedly offered free meals at a high-end restaurant to homeless and socially disadvantaged Greenlanders in exchange for participating in a promotional video wearing the MAGA hats. Tom Amtof, a local resident who identified some of the individuals in the footage, criticized the move, calling it “bribery” and “deeply distasteful.”

Greenland, though sparsely populated with just 57,000 residents, is an expansive territory rich in valuable natural resources, including oil, gas, and rare earth elements. These resources are expected to become more accessible as climate change accelerates ice melt in the region. Greenland is believed to hold significant reserves of up to 31 different minerals, such as lithium and graphite, both essential components in the production of electric vehicle batteries. Currently, China dominates global graphite production, supplying around 65% of the world’s total output.

While Denmark oversees Greenland’s foreign affairs and defense policies, the United States also plays a role in the island’s defense. The U.S. operates Pituffik Space Base, formerly known as Thule Air Base, which is the northernmost military installation in the American defense network.