As Greenlanders brace for one of the most consequential elections in their history, US President Donald Trump has once again made it clear that he wants the Arctic island to become part of the United States.
His remarks come just days before voters head to the polls to decide the future of Greenland’s self-governance, fueling tensions between Greenland, Denmark, and the U.S.
Trump’s Greenland Gambit
In a social media post shared on Truth Social, President Trump once again reaffirmed his administration’s interest in Greenland - and made a bold promise to the residents of the territory.
"As I made clear during my Joint Address to Congress, the United States strongly supports the people of Greenland’s right to determine their own future," Trump wrote. "We will continue to KEEP YOU SAFE, as we have since World War II.
"We are ready to INVEST BILLIONS OF DOLLARS to create new jobs and MAKE YOU RICH — And, if you so choose, we welcome you to be a part of the Greatest Nation anywhere in the World, the United States of America!"
Trump’s comments mirror his earlier statements, where he insisted the U.S. would acquire Greenland “one way or the other.” Despite Denmark's firm refusal to entertain any sale, Trump has consistently argued that Greenland’s natural resources and strategic location make it vital for US national security.
His remarks come as Greenlanders prepare to elect 31 members of their legislature, the Inatsisartut, per Politico.
The outcome could have long-lasting implications, with the dominant pro-independence parties, Inuit Ataqatigiit and Siumut, promising a future referendum on breaking away from Denmark.
Per a 2009 agreement with Denmark, Greenland can legally declare independence once a referendum has taken place in support of the move.
Greenland’s Response: ‘We Are Not for Sale’
Greenland’s Prime Minister Múte Egede has swiftly dismissed Trump’s latest overture, delivering a strong rebuttal: "We do not wish to be Americans. Greenland is ours," he said, per USA Today.
Egede doubled down, emphasizing Greenland’s sovereignty: "We do not want to be Americans, nor Danes, we are Greenlanders. The Americans and their leaders must understand that. We are not for sale and cannot just be taken. Our future is decided by us in Greenland."
Greenland, which has been part of the Danish Kingdom since the 18th century, already enjoys self-rule under the same 2009 agreement. However, economic concerns remain a major hurdle, as Denmark provides an annual $500 million subsidy that supports the island’s welfare system, Politico reports.
Election and Independence: What’s at Stake?
For many Greenlanders, independence is an emotional issue. Sermitsiaq editor-in-chief Masaana Egede described the debate as deeply personal, stating: “We want independence, but we all have very different definitions of what independence is.”
While Trump has promised to “make Greenland rich,” a January poll indicated that 85% of Greenlanders oppose becoming part of the U.S. Instead, the focus has been on developing Greenland’s economy through industries like mining, tourism, and shipping to reduce reliance on Denmark.
Greenland has already blocked EU-backed mining projects due to concerns over uranium deposits, showing a strong desire to control its own resources.
However, the lack of economic alternatives has made some Greenlanders cautious about full independence.
Tributes to Greenland’s Sovereignty and Identity
Greenland’s political leaders and citizens have rallied around a shared national identity, emphasizing that their land is not for sale. Prime Minister Egede’s firm stance has been echoed by many:
“Greenland is not a commodity that can be bought and sold,” said Hans Enoksen, former Greenlandic Prime Minister. “We have fought too long for our self-determination to let it be decided by foreign leaders.”
Greenlandic activist Nivi Løvstrøm stated, “We deserve to chart our own path without interference. Our culture, language, and way of life cannot be traded for money.”
And Danish Prime Minister Mette Frederiksen, who previously called Trump’s interest in Greenland “absurd,” reiterated her country’s position: “Greenland’s future is for Greenlanders to decide, and Denmark stands fully behind them.”
With the election looming, the people of Greenland now face a pivotal moment in their nation’s history. As Trump pushes his vision of Greenland as the newest U.S. territory, Greenlanders will have the final say on their future.
Whatever the outcome, the world is watching.