Greenland’s push for independence is gaining momentum, and pro-independence MP Kuno Fencker believes the timing has never been better. Speaking to European media on January 27, Fencker declared, “This is the best time to push for independence from the pressure of the United States.”
Fencker pointed to the growing American interest in Greenland, particularly the pressure the US is putting on Denmark with threats of punitive tariffs if Denmark resists American plans. He sees this as a turning point for Greenland’s independence, especially with the US involved in Greenland’s self-determination. “We all see it—the United States is playing a role in Greenland’s independence and self-determination by pressuring Denmark as they are,” Fencker remarked.
The Greenlandic MP also expressed optimism over Donald Trump’s remarks about Greenland, which he feels tie the island’s potential to broader concepts of global freedom. On January 25, Trump stated, “I do believe, we’ll get [Greenland] because it really has to do with freedom of the world.”
For Fencker, the increased attention on Greenland is granting the island greater leverage in its pursuit of sovereignty. He believes Denmark can no longer ignore calls for independence. He pointed out that Denmark’s typical response to independence talks—threatening to cut funding for social services—shouldn’t hold the island back. “Every time we speak about independence or equal footing as States, they threaten to take away our education and healthcare,” Fencker explained.
Denmark currently provides Greenland with about €1 billion annually for social services, but Fencker is adamant that this financial relationship shouldn’t be a barrier to sovereignty. “This couldn’t be a better time to negotiate a deal with Denmark,” he said.
Fencker has long been a key advocate for Greenland’s independence, pushing for the creation of a Section 21 Commission in the spring of last year, based on Greenland’s Self-Government Act. The commission would take steps toward independence, including a referendum, negotiations with Copenhagen, and approval from Denmark’s Parliament.
However, Fencker is clear that Greenland’s goal is to become a fully sovereign state and will not be sold off to the US or remain under Danish control. “We want a sovereign state—that is non-negotiable. We are not for sale. We will not become part of the US or remain an unwilling territory of Denmark,” he declared.
That said, Fencker sees opportunities in fostering closer ties with Washington, especially regarding military and airbase agreements. Greenlandic MPs have made several trips to the United States in recent weeks, exploring possible future partnerships to strengthen Greenland’s position on the global stage.
