Greenland’s Premier: “We Do Not Want to Be Americans”

Greenland’s leader, Mute Egede, firmly rejected the idea of joining the United States after President Donald Trump suggested that America would acquire the island “one way or another.”

“We do not want to be Americans or Danes. We are the people of Greenland, and American leaders must understand that,” Egede wrote on Facebook on March 5.

His statement came in response to Trump’s remarks during his State of the Union address on March 4, where the U.S. president declared that America would secure Greenland “one way or another.” Trump insisted that the U.S. supports the right of all people to determine their future and extended an open invitation to Greenlanders.

“If you choose to join us, we welcome you to America,” Trump said, promising to ensure Greenland’s security, prosperity, and elevate the island “to a level you never thought possible.”

Egede, however, made it clear that Greenland—an autonomous territory of Denmark—“is not for sale and cannot be taken.”

“Our future will be decided by us, right here in Greenland,” he emphasized.

With an area larger than Mexico but a population of just 57,000, Greenland was granted self-rule in 2009, including the right to declare independence from Denmark via a referendum. Egede, a strong advocate for independence, has repeatedly stated that the island’s fate must be determined by its own people.

Polls in Greenland indicate widespread opposition to becoming part of the U.S., though many residents support independence from Denmark. The Danish government has also reaffirmed that Greenland’s future is up to its people and that the island is not for sale.

Danish Foreign Minister Lars Løkke Rasmussen acknowledged Trump’s recognition of Greenland’s right to self-determination in his address, calling it a significant statement.

Egede is eager to hold a referendum on Greenland’s independence, aiming to give the island greater control over its future. However, many Greenlanders remain hesitant, as breaking away from Denmark would mean losing generous financial support and free healthcare.

Greenland’s upcoming election on March 11 is expected to focus heavily on the island’s independence aspirations.

Trump first floated the idea of purchasing the world’s largest island during his first term in 2019, arguing that U.S. control over Greenland was “essential” to national security. Located on the shortest route between North America and Europe, the island holds significant strategic value for the U.S.

(Sources: AFP, Reuters)