Danish Prime Minister Mette Frederiksen reiterated Greenland’s sovereignty and rejected the idea of selling the island to the United States, following increased calls from President-elect Donald Trump to acquire the Arctic territory.
Frederiksen’s Firm Stance
Speaking to Danish TV station TV 2, Frederiksen emphasized Greenlandic Prime Minister Múte Egede’s consistent message that Greenland is not for sale:
“There is a lot of support among the people of Greenland that Greenland is not for sale and will not be in the future either,” Frederiksen stated.
She stressed the importance of respecting Greenland’s autonomy and underscored Denmark’s strong alliance with the U.S., saying,
“We need to stay calm and stick to our principles.”
Trump Jr.’s Visit to Greenland
Amid this backdrop, Donald Trump Jr. visited Greenland’s capital Nuuk on Tuesday. Although the visit was described as personal, Trump Jr. interacted with locals, explored cultural landmarks, and recorded content for his podcast. Videos shared online showed Trump Jr. arriving aboard a plane marked “TRUMP” and engaging with residents.
President-elect Trump, in a Truth Social post, expressed enthusiasm about Greenlanders’ apparent support for U.S. acquisition:
“The reception has been great… This is a deal that must happen. MAGA. MAKE GREENLAND GREAT AGAIN!”
Trump attached a video claiming to show a Greenlander voicing support for U.S. ownership, framing it as a rejection of Danish governance.
Historical Context and Renewed Interest
This is not the first time Trump has suggested purchasing Greenland. During his first term in 2019, the proposal caused international uproar, with Danish leaders and Greenlandic officials firmly rejecting the idea. Trump has repeatedly argued that Greenland holds strategic importance for U.S. national security.
On Tuesday, speaking at his Mar-a-Lago estate, Trump doubled down on his stance, saying,
“Denmark should give it up.”
Greenland’s Strategic Importance
Greenland, the world’s largest island, is an autonomous territory under the Kingdom of Denmark. With a population of 57,000, it is largely dependent on Danish subsidies, but it holds significant geopolitical value due to its location and natural resources. The U.S. already has a military presence in Greenland through the Thule Air Base, emphasizing the island’s strategic importance.
Greenland’s Position
Greenland’s leaders, including Prime Minister Múte Egede, have repeatedly voiced their opposition to any sale, asserting that Greenland’s future will be determined by its people.
“We are not for sale and will not be for sale,” Egede reaffirmed in December.
Global Reactions
Trump’s renewed push has sparked criticism. Danish Defense Minister Troels Lund Poulsen backed Greenland’s position, while opposition politicians in Denmark have labeled the U.S. president-elect’s comments disrespectful.
Conservative MP Rasmus Jarlov stated:
“This level of disrespect from the coming U.S. president towards very loyal allies is record-setting.”
Outlook
While Trump’s calls to acquire Greenland have reignited the debate, the Danish government and Greenland’s leadership remain unwavering in their refusal. For now, the U.S.’s interest in Greenland highlights its strategic significance but underscores the need for diplomatic tact in navigating such discussions.
