On March 5th local time, in response to US President Trump's statement in a joint session of Congress about his hope to "in some way" control Greenland, the Prime Minister of Greenland's autonomous government, Múte Bourup Egede, firmly declared, "Greenland is ours."
Trump Reiterates Greenland Plan, Calls It Crucial to US National Security
In his March 5th speech to Congress, Trump stated that the US "needs Greenland to ensure national security and even international security," and mentioned that he is working with "all relevant parties" to achieve this goal. He further added, "One way or another, we will get it."
This is not the first time Trump has expressed interest in Greenland. As early as 2019, Trump proposed the idea of purchasing Greenland but was firmly rejected by both Denmark and Greenland authorities. Now, upon his successful re-election, he has reinforced this stance, even suggesting that more aggressive measures might be considered to accomplish the objective.
Greenland Government Firmly Responds: We Do Not Belong to the US
In response to Trump's remarks, Greenland's autonomous government Prime Minister Egede issued a statement on social media platform Facebook, emphasizing that Greenland's sovereignty is indisputable.
"Greenland is ours. We do not want to become Americans, nor do we want to be Danes. We are Greenlanders. US leaders must understand this. We are not a commodity to be bought and sold, and our future will be decided by the people of Greenland," wrote Egede.
Danish Government Staunchly Supports Greenland's Autonomy
Trump's statements not only provoked a strong reaction from Greenland, but also prompted a swift response from the Danish government. Danish Prime Minister Mette Frederiksen reaffirmed in a statement on the same day, "Greenland belongs to the Greenlandic people." She clearly stated that the Danish government firmly supports the position of Greenland's autonomous government.
"The future of Greenland should be determined by the people of Greenland," Frederiksen emphasized, while also noting that the Danish government wishes to maintain the integrity of the Danish Kingdom community but insists that this relationship must "adapt to modern times, based on equality and respect."
Danish Foreign Minister Lars Løkke Rasmussen also noted that he does not believe the people of Greenland would choose to become part of the US instead of remaining with Denmark. He cited multiple polls showing that while many Greenlanders support independence from Denmark, they generally oppose joining the US.
Why Is Trump Determined to Control Greenland?
Greenland holds significant strategic value for the US and has long been a focal point of interest. Firstly, it is home to a critical US Air Force military base vital for the US ballistic missile warning system. Moreover, the shortest flight path from Europe to North America passes over Greenland, granting it a unique military and strategic position.
Secondly, Greenland is rich in natural resources, including minerals, the purest water and ice, rare earth elements, and renewable energy sources—all crucial for US competition in global energy and technology.
Can Greenland Maintain Its Independence?
Currently, Greenland is still part of the Danish Kingdom and enjoys high autonomy, but defense and foreign affairs remain under Danish control. In recent years, calls for Greenland's independence have been rising, with many locals hoping to eventually break free from Danish control while also being cautious about becoming part of the US.
Trump's latest remarks will undoubtedly escalate geopolitical tensions. Whether Trump will adjust his strategy or employ more direct diplomatic and economic means in the face of strong opposition from the Greenland and Danish governments remains to be seen. In the future, the issue of Greenland's status may become a focal point of international attention, further influencing the political landscape of the Nordic region.
