Greenland's Prime Minister Mute Egede has reiterated that the Arctic island does not seek to be either American or Danish, reaffirming the territory's growing desire for independence.
This statement comes in response to US President-elect Donald Trump’s recent remarks about the potential acquisition of Greenland, including his refusal to rule out military or economic force.
Speaking 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 to be fully independent and "the master of our own house."
Prime minister also made it clear that Greenland is open to cooperation, but on its own terms. “That doesn’t mean we are cutting all ties with Denmark,” he said, acknowledging that the island still has relations with the Danish government despite its push for autonomy.
Greenland’s desire for independence has gained momentum in recent years, particularly as Denmark’s colonial abuses against the predominantly Inuit population have come to light.
Although Greenland is still a self-governing Danish territory, it secured the right to claim independence through a 2009 referendum.
Trump’s recent comments about the strategic importance of Greenland—particularly its proximity to the Arctic—have raised tensions.
The US has maintained a military base in Greenland's northern region, a key area of interest as Russia and China expand their influence in the Arctic. The US has expressed interest in acquiring the territory, a notion that has been dismissed by Greenland’s leadership.
Trump had previously attempted to buy Greenland during his first term as president in 2019, a proposal that was rejected by Denmark.
The US president-elect’s son, Donald Trump Jr., recently visited the territory, further fueling speculation that the incoming administration might push for control over Greenland once in office.
Danish Prime Minister Mette Frederiksen, while acknowledging the growing debate surrounding Greenlandic independence, emphasised the close relationship between Denmark and the US, describing the US as Denmark’s "closest ally."
However, she also stated that Denmark would continue to respect Greenland's sovereignty and work with the Greenlandic government to maintain strong bilateral relations.
