Greenland election reignites independence debate as Trump pushes US claim

Voters in Greenland are heading to the polls on Tuesday in a crucial parliamentary election, with the long-standing issue of independence from Denmark taking center stage.

The vote also comes amid renewed interest from US President Donald Trump, who has repeatedly suggested that the United States should take control of the Arctic island—despite firm opposition from both Greenland and Denmark.

The pro-independence Inuit Ataqatigiit party, which currently leads the government, is expected to maintain its influence in the 31-seat Inatsisartut (Greenland’s parliament), according to a January poll.

Their closest competitor, Siumut, also supports independence, with both parties advocating for a future referendum.

However, a concrete timeline for breaking away from Denmark has yet to be established.

Denmark’s role and financial support

Although Greenland manages its domestic affairs, Denmark oversees its foreign policy and defense.

Copenhagen also provides an annual block grant of $511 million, which accounts for about 20% of Greenland’s GDP and more than half of its public budget, according to the International Trade Administration.

While Denmark has repeatedly stated that Greenland is not for sale, officials remain wary of the growing push for self-rule.

Trump revives US claims on Greenland

Trump has sparked controversy by suggesting the US should take control of Greenland, citing economic and national security interests.

In December, he called Greenland’s ownership “essential” to America, prompting a swift rejection from Greenland’s Prime Minister Mute Egede, who insisted, “We are not for sale and will never be for sale.”

Despite Denmark and Greenland firmly rejecting the idea, Trump raised the issue again last week, telling Congress that the US would secure control over Greenland “one way or the other.”

He followed up with a post on Truth Social, pledging billions of dollars in investment if Greenland chooses to align with the US.

Greenland’s stance: Independence, not US statehood

While many Greenlanders support the idea of independence, joining the US is not a popular alternative.

A January poll by Verian found that 85% of Greenlanders opposed becoming part of the US, while only 6% supported it.

However, 56% said they would vote for independence in a referendum.

Danish lawmaker Rasmus Jarlov dismissed Trump’s claims, stating that no candidate in Greenland’s election supports joining the US.

He also noted that Greenland currently enjoys full political rights within Denmark, while under the US, it would likely become a territory without voting rights—similar to Puerto Rico.

What’s next for Greenland?

Analysts suggest that rather than seeking to “own” Greenland, the US should focus on strengthening diplomatic and economic ties with the region.

The US has already invested in Greenland’s mining, education, and tourism sectors, and experts believe a cooperative approach would benefit both nations.

As Greenland moves closer to self-determination, the election outcome will shape the next steps toward independence.

However, with Trump keeping Greenland on his radar, the political and diplomatic discussions surrounding its future are far from over.

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