Last Updated on 6 months by Ashley Michael
Greenland PM, Mute Bourup Egede, firmly dismissed former U.S. President Donald Trump’s renewed interest in acquiring the Arctic territory, stating unequivocally that Greenland is not for sale.
Trump reiterated his long-standing ambition during his address to Congress on Tuesday, emphasizing that the U.S. seeks to take control of Greenland “one way or the other” due to its strategic importance.
In response, Egede took to Facebook post to reject Trump’s remarks. “Greenland belongs to the Greenlanders,” he wrote. “We are not Americans, we are not Danes, we are Kalaallit. The Americans and their leaders need to understand that we cannot be bought, and we cannot be ignored.”
The Greenland PM emphasized Greenland’s sovereignty, stating, “We are not for sale and cannot be taken. The future of our country will be decided by us, in Greenland.”
Trump’s interest in Greenland dates back to his first term, with the island’s vast mineral resources and strategic location in the Arctic Circle making it a valuable geopolitical asset. As Arctic ice recedes, key shipping routes such as the Northwest Passage and the Transpolar Sea Route are expected to become increasingly viable, further elevating Greenland’s importance.
During his speech, Trump attempted to appeal to Greenland’s leadership, stating, “We strongly support your right to determine your own future, and if you choose, we welcome you into the United States. We will keep you safe. We will make you rich. And together, we will take Greenland to heights never thought possible.”
Despite his assurances, Denmark Greenland’s governing state has also firmly rejected any possibility of ceding the territory to the U.S. In February, Danish Prime Minister Mette Frederiksen reiterated that “Greenland is part of the Kingdom of Denmark. It is part of our territory, and it is not for sale.”
While officials in both Denmark and Greenland have expressed openness to discussions about expanding the U.S. military presence on the island, they have categorically ruled out any transfer of sovereignty..