Greenland is largely a self-governing territory, but Denmark still holds ultimate authority over the island, which is rich in valuable minerals. Greenland’s prime minister is now pushing for full independence, despite opposition from Denmark’s king.
Prime Minister Múte Egede has called for Greenland to “break free” from what he referred to as “the shackles of colonialism” and to begin charting its own future. Egede’s calls for independence come shortly after President-elect Donald Trump suggested the U.S. should buy Greenland.
Trump’s son, Donald Trump Jr., is scheduled to visit Greenland this week. However, according to sources who spoke with Reuters, the trip is a private one and there are no scheduled meetings with Greenlandic government officials. Trump Jr. is expected to shoot video content for a podcast during the visit.
Prime Minister Egede has said that Greenland’s government has already begun drafting a new constitution and laying the groundwork for independence. He pointed to the Self-Government Act, which provides a legal pathway for Greenland to seek full sovereignty from Denmark.
Egede also highlighted recent infrastructure projects, including the opening of an international airport that will allow direct flights to Greenland, bypassing Denmark. These developments are seen as important steps toward boosting tourism and international business opportunities.
President-elect Trump renewed his call for the U.S. to take control of Greenland, declaring just days before Christmas that the “ownership and control” of the island is “an absolute necessity.” Egede responded bluntly, stating that Greenland is not, and will never be, for sale.
Trump’s interest in acquiring Greenland is not new. He first raised the idea during his first term, but the proposal was rejected by both Greenland and Denmark, leading to diplomatic friction. The tension has resurfaced with Trump’s renewed calls for control.
In a symbolic move, Denmark’s king recently altered the royal coat of arms to more prominently feature Greenland, represented by a polar bear. This change signals Denmark’s reluctance to give up control over the island.
In a New Year’s speech, the Danish king reiterated that Denmark and Greenland “belong together,” further opposing the separatist movement in Greenland and Trump’s desire for the island.