Protests have broken out in Greenland and Denmark in opposition to Donald Trump’s repeated intentions to take over the island territory. The US President threatened to impose additional tariffs on countries that oppose his annexation plans.
In Greenland’s capital, Nuuk, large groups of demonstrators filled the streets, proudly waving the red and white flag of the island territory and asserting that Greenland is not for sale. Trump argues that US ownership of Greenland is crucial for national security, a claim strongly disputed by Denmark, which has permitted the US to station more troops on the island but is adamant about not “trading people” to Washington DC.
In response to the pushback from Denmark and other nations, Trump announced plans to impose a 10 percent tariff on the UK and potentially raise it to 25 percent on June 1 until an agreement is reached for the complete purchase of Greenland.
Opposing Trump’s stance, Keir Starmer stated, “Our position on Greenland is clear – it is part of the Kingdom of Denmark, and its fate lies with the Greenlanders and the Danes. Arctic security is a concern for NATO, and allies should collaborate to address threats in the Arctic. Levying tariffs on allies over NATO security is unjust. We will address this matter directly with the US administration.”
A survey conducted by Verian in January 2025 revealed that the vast majority of Greenlanders either prefer independence or remaining part of Denmark, with only six percent expressing a desire to join the US. Any attempt to forcibly take Greenland, a territory of NATO member Denmark, would trigger intervention by NATO allies.
Today, residents of Nuuk expressed their opposition to becoming part of the US, emphasizing their preference for independence or Danish affiliation. Denmark has historically seen itself as a dependable ally to the US.
Greenland has been a self-governing entity within Denmark since 2009, and its residents have a strong sentiment towards independence or continued association with Denmark.