Parliamentary elections are taking place in Greenland, which were postponed due to concerns over U.S. interference.
President Donald Trump once again expressed his claims over the island. In his speech before the U.S. Congress last week, he addressed the Greenlanders, saying, “You will get rich with us!” and promised, “We will get Greenland.”
Although Greenland is part of Denmark, it enjoys significant autonomy. In response to Trump’s statements, Copenhagen decided to increase financial support to the island, particularly in the defense sector. Additionally, due to concerns from Danish intelligence services that the U.S. might interfere in the elections, they were postponed — now they are set to take place today, one month earlier than originally planned.
84% of Greenland’s 56,000 inhabitants support the idea of independence, but they do not wish to join the U.S. At the same time, Greenland lacks sufficient resources to establish a fully independent state, defend itself, and finance healthcare and social services.
If the independence party wins, it could initiate a referendum on secession from Denmark. In this case, as Denmark fears, Trump may try to influence the vote’s outcome and Greenland’s future policies. However, another scenario is being considered: According to BILD, Denmark and the U.S. are working on an agreement that would involve a partnership in security and natural resource development.
The U.S. would gain additional military bases in the region to protect the Arctic Ocean and trade routes, while Denmark would increase funding for military and infrastructure projects in Greenland. Natural resources would be developed jointly, benefiting both Greenlanders and American companies. Ultimately, Trump will not gain the island itself, but he may present this agreement as his victory.
