Countless Greenlanders Rally Against Trump’s Controversial Takeover Plans – DW Reports (March 15, 2025)

On Saturday, many Greenlanders gathered in Nuuk to protest against U.S. President Donald Trump’s interest in the island. The crowds waved the Greenlandic flag and held signs stating messages like "Respect Greenland’s sovereignty" and "We are not for sale." They also chanted, "Make America Go Away," a twist on Trump’s campaign slogan.

Jens-Frederik Nielsen, leader of the newly elected Demokraatit party, joined former Prime Minister Mute B. Egede to lead the march toward the U.S. consulate. Nielsen emphasized their right to autonomy, telling the press, “There is no chance I will discuss Greenland becoming part of the U.S. Greenland will remain Greenland.” Egede called Trump’s views "completely unacceptable," stressing the island’s desire for self-governance.

Trump’s comments about Greenland aren’t new. Recently, he reiterated his interest in the territory during a meeting with NATO chief Mark Rutte, suggesting it was vital for U.S. national security because of existing military bases there. Greenland, with a population of just 57,000, is self-governing but a part of the Kingdom of Denmark.

Greenland’s government has firmly opposed Trump’s annexation talk. Leaders from five political parties in the Greenlandic parliament united in a statement, expressing their disapproval of any discussion about control of the island.

Interestingly, this isn’t the first time U.S. interest in Greenland has sparked controversy. In 1946, President Harry Truman offered to buy Greenland for $100 million, a proposal quickly dismissed by Denmark. Today, the conversations about Greenland’s place in global politics are colored by strategic interests, especially with climate change opening up new shipping routes and resources in the Arctic.

Public reaction to Trump’s comments has been mixed, but many Greenlanders feel their identity and sovereignty are being overlooked. Social media trends show active conversations about the island’s autonomy, with hashtags related to #Greenland and #Sovereignty gaining traction.

For more detailed insights about Greenland’s geopolitical significance, consider exploring resources like the Arctic Council and its role in international relations.

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