Greenland's Prime Minister Declares Island Not for Sale Amid US Tensions

In response to President Trump's threats regarding Greenland's status, Prime Minister Jens-Frederik Nielsen asserts the island's autonomy, emphasizing that it is not a "piece of property" for sale.

Greenland's Prime Minister Jens-Frederik Nielsen has firmly reiterated that the island is not a commodity that can be traded, following remarks from former President Donald Trump regarding U.S. interest in assuming control over the autonomous Danish territory. During a visit to Copenhagen, Nielsen, flanked by Danish Prime Minister Mette Frederiksen, voiced strong disapproval of what he termed "disrespectful" American rhetoric.

Nielsen, who took office earlier this year, emphasized the importance of solidarity between Greenland and Denmark, stating, "We will never, ever be a piece of property that can be bought by anyone." He underscored the need for the two nations to strengthen their ties in light of shifting international policies.

Trump's comments from earlier this year have sparked outrage in both Denmark and Greenland, with the former president suggesting the strategic significance of Greenland should warrant its acquisition by the U.S. During a congressional address, Trump insisted that control of the island was critical for national and international security. He has even entertained the idea of using military force to achieve this objective, although U.S. Vice President JD Vance clarified that military intervention would not be needed.

Despite their discontent with Trump's remarks, both Nielsen and Frederiksen expressed a willingness to engage in dialogue with the U.S. president. Nielsen went on to assert Greenland's readiness to foster stronger connections with America while emphasizing the importance of mutual respect in any future dealings.

Nielsen's trip to Denmark aligns with Frederiksen’s earlier visit to Greenland, where she firmly rejected Trump's insinuations of annexation, labeled as unacceptable. This comes on the heels of Vice President Vance’s visit to Greenland, which received criticism for echoing Trump’s intentions and questioning Denmark's governance over the island.

As the world's largest island, Greenland has been under Danish control for approximately 300 years, possessing its own domestic governing body while foreign policy remains dictated by Copenhagen. Historically, the U.S. has maintained a military presence in the region since World War II and has interest in Greenland's potential mineral resources.

Public sentiment reflects a desire for independence among many Greenlanders, who overwhelmingly oppose U.S. annexation. Nielsen’s center-right Democrat-led coalition government is advocating for a gradual approach to independence from Denmark, as the island continues to navigate its complex geopolitical landscape.