Greenland’s political leaders issued a rare joint statement after US President Donald Trump indicated that the United States could use force and take control of the Arctic island.
Trump has repeatedly argued that Greenland, which is rich in minerals and strategically situated in the Arctic, is crucial for US national security. He has mentioned that American control of the island is essential to prevent Russia or China from increasing their influence in the region. Russia and China have expanded their activities in the Arctic in recent years, but neither of the countries has an official claim over Greenland.
Greenland is a self-governing territory of Denmark, a close US ally and NATO member. The United States already has a military presence on the island through an existing defence deal.
“We want to be Greenlanders,” proclaims five parties
In response to Trump’s statement, leaders of five political parties represented in Greenland’s parliament issued a joint statement rejecting the idea of becoming part of the United States.
“We don’t want to be Americans, we don’t want to be Danish, we want to be Greenlanders,” the statement mentioned. The leaders emphasised that Greenland’s future must be decided by its own people, not imposed by outside powers.
Trump also downplayed Denmark’s historical claim to Greenland, stating that just because Denmark had a presence three centuries ago “doesn’t mean they own the land,” as quoted by AFP.
What can the US do?
The US officials are exploring a range of options, including deeper security ties, diplomatic arrangements, or even buying the island. However, Danish and leaders of Greenland have repeatedly mentioned that it is not for sale.
Experts, as quoted by the Associated Press, have cautioned that using military force would likely trigger a serious NATO conflict, as Denmark is a NATO ally. Danish Prime Minister Mette Frederiksen has mentioned that a US invasion of Greenland would effectively end the transatlantic security framework. The US already enjoys broader access under a 1951 defence deal, including operating the Pituffik Space Base.
US Secretary of State Marco Rubio is likely to meet Denmark’s foreign minister and representatives of Greenland next week.