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The newly appointed prime minister of Greenland, Jens-Frederick Nielsen, has firmly stated that the island is not for sale, responding directly to former President Donald Trump’s persistent remarks regarding U.S. control of the autonomous Danish territory.
During his visit to Copenhagen, Nielsen emphasized the need for Greenland and Denmark to unify against what he described as “disrespectful” comments from the U.S.
Nielsen’s statements were made alongside Danish Prime Minister Mette Frederiksen, highlighting a collaborative stance between the two leaders amid ongoing tensions.
As part of a show of solidarity, Nielsen is set to return to Greenland with King Frederik of Denmark, who will commence a four-day royal visit to the island.
“We will never be treated as just a piece of property that can be purchased. This is a crucial message that needs to be understood,” mentioned Nielsen, who took office as Greenland’s prime minister in April.
He further indicated that Greenland and Denmark should strengthen their partnership in light of shifting foreign policy dynamics.
Trump’s comments regarding Greenland have sparked significant backlash in both Denmark and Greenland, where his suggestions of purchasing the island have been met with disbelief and criticism.
During a congressional address in March, Trump characterized control of Greenland as vital for “national security and international security.”
The former president has suggested the possibility of buying the island and has alluded to military options, though U.S. Vice-President JD Vance stated last month that military force is not seen as a viable route.
Despite expressing disapproval of Trump’s statements, both Nielsen and Frederiksen indicated a willingness to engage in discussions with the U.S. president.
Nielsen reinforced Greenland’s readiness to enhance its relationship with the U.S., stating, “We are open to a strong partnership and further development, but we demand respect.”
Nielsen’s visit to Denmark follows Frederiksen’s trip to Greenland earlier this month, where she asserted, “You can’t annex other countries,” directed at the U.S. president.
This visit came after Vance’s controversial trip to the territory, which drew critique for reiterating Trump’s proposals and suggesting that Copenhagen has not effectively met the needs of Greenlanders.
Greenland, the largest island globally, has been under Danish control for approximately three centuries. While it manages its own local affairs, Copenhagen oversees foreign and defense policies.
The U.S. has maintained a strategic interest in Greenland, including a military presence since World War II, and the potential for rare earth mineral extraction may also attract American interest.
Surveys indicate a strong desire among Greenlanders for independence from Denmark, while a majority have expressed reluctance to affiliate with the U.S.
Formed in March, the coalition government in Greenland is led by Nielsen’s center-right Democrats, who advocate for a gradual move towards independence.
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