Greenland’s Prime Minister stands firm on independence, risking tension with President-elect Trump.
Greenland’s PM Mute Egede expressed unwavering support for his country’s sovereignty, asserting that the island’s people have no desire to be part of Denmark or the United States. In a Fox News interview on Thursday, Egede emphasized that while Greenland values close ties with the U.S. and Denmark, it maintains a firm stance on independence. “The Greenlandic people don’t want to be Danes. The Greenlandic people don’t want to be Americans,” he stated, highlighting Greenland’s strong sense of national identity.
Egede’s comments come amid growing speculation and interest from President-elect Donald Trump in Greenland’s potential acquisition, given the island’s strategic location and rich natural resources. Trump had previously expressed interest in purchasing Greenland, an idea that has drawn opposition from Greenland’s political leaders, who are committed to maintaining their autonomy.
Denmark Supports Greenland’s Position
Denmark’s Prime Minister Mette Frederiksen has been vocal in her support for Greenland’s stance. In a phone conversation with President-elect Trump on Wednesday, Frederiksen reaffirmed that “Greenland is not for sale,” aligning with Egede’s firm position. Denmark, which governs Greenland as an autonomous territory, continues to back Greenland’s aspirations for greater self-determination while also reinforcing the island’s relationships with global partners.
Egede reiterated Greenland’s openness to international partnerships, particularly in the areas of mining and investment. The Prime Minister expressed a willingness to engage with the European Union and the United States on economic matters, particularly related to Greenland’s abundant natural resources. His comments echoed a recent opinion piece published by Naaja H. Nathanielsen, Greenland’s Minister for Natural Resources, in The Washington Post.
Greenland’s Future: Independence and Security Partnerships
Looking ahead, Egede declared that if given the opportunity through a referendum, the Greenlandic people would likely choose independence. He made it clear that any decision regarding the island’s future should rest in the hands of its citizens. “The future of Greenland will be decided by the Greenlandic people,” he asserted.
Should Greenland achieve independence, Greenland’s PM indicated that the island would seek to remain within NATO as a member state. He emphasized that security and defense partnerships with the U.S. and the European Union would remain a priority. “If Greenland takes those steps, we’ll always be a part of the Western alliance and a strong partner for [the] U.S.,” Egede said, stressing the shared security interests between Greenland and its allies.
