Greenland's PM Asserts Island's Sovereignty Amid Trump's Controversial Remarks

During a recent visit to Denmark, Greenland's Prime Minister Jens-Frederik Nielsen emphasized that Greenland is not for sale, responding to President Trump's repeated statements about acquiring the territory. Alongside Danish Prime Minister Mette Frederiksen, he advocates for unity against perceived disrespect from the U.S., highlighting Greenland's desire for partnership based on mutual respect and self-governance.

Greenland's Prime Minister Jens-Frederik Nielsen firmly declared that the island he leads is not a "piece of property that can be bought," in light of U.S. President Donald Trump's persistent suggestions about purchasing the autonomous territory. Speaking in Copenhagen alongside Danish Prime Minister Mette Frederiksen, Nielsen insisted that Greenland and Denmark must stand united against what he described as "disrespectful" comments from the Trump administration.

Nielsen, who assumed office in April 2023, articulated that the significance of their alliance could not be overstated. His comments followed Trump's controversial assertions about wanting U.S. control over Greenland during various public statements, including a congressional address where he linked the acquisition to U.S. national and international security concerns.

Highlighting a recent symbolic gesture, Nielsen is set to return to Greenland with King Frederik of Denmark for a four-day royal visit, emphasizing the bond between Greenland and its governing nation. "We will never, ever be a piece of property that can be bought by anyone, and that's the message I think is most important to understand," Nielsen remarked, underscoring Greenland's commitment to autonomy.

Trump's remarks have ignited a wave of indignation across Denmark and Greenland, prompting strong statements from both Nielsen and Frederiksen. While they have openly criticized Trump's rhetoric, both leaders indicated a willingness to engage in talks with the U.S. president. Nielsen reiterated Greenland's openness to strengthen relations with the U.S. while insisting on respect for the territory's sovereignty: "We are ready for a strong partnership and more development, but we want respect."

The issue has gained considerable attention following a controversial visit by U.S. Vice President JD Vance, who reaffirmed Trump's vision for Greenland, stating that Copenhagen had inadequately served Greenland's interests. Amid these tensions, Frederiksen previously made it clear that "you can't annex other countries," reinforcing international norms against territorial acquisition.

For nearly 300 years, Denmark has governed Greenland, which manages its own internal affairs while foreign and defense policies are decided in Copenhagen. The U.S. maintains a longstanding military presence in Greenland, tracing back to World War II, likely fueled by interests in the island's untapped mineral resources.

Polling indicates that while many Greenlanders favor independence from Danish rule, they do not support the idea of joining the United States. Nielsen's center-right Democratic party, which governs in a coalition formed in March, advocates for a gradual path toward self-determination in the face of external pressures.