President Donald Trump is planning to take swift action regarding Greenland, with a senior administration official suggesting that developments could occur within weeks or months. Thomas Dans, America’s Arctic commissioner and a key figure in Trump’s interest in Greenland, indicated that progress may be imminent, although any potential acquisition process would likely be a longer endeavor. Dans likened the situation to a train journey with various stops, noting that Trump aims to advance the matter rapidly.
Dans emphasized the importance of gaining the support of Greenland’s population, acknowledging that while most of the 57,000 inhabitants aspire for eventual independence from Denmark, they are largely opposed to Greenland becoming a US state. Both Denmark and Greenland officials have reiterated that the island is not up for sale.
In response to the growing discussions, a senior official from Greenland expressed disbelief at the prospect of the US contemplating control over a NATO ally. Naaja Nathanielsen, Greenland’s minister for business and mineral resources, conveyed the concerns of the island’s people, emphasizing the anxiety and uncertainty prevailing among the populace. A crucial meeting is scheduled in Washington involving US Vice President JD Vance, Secretary of State Marco Rubio, and foreign ministers from Denmark and Greenland, to delve into Trump’s interest in acquiring Greenland.
Despite the heightened tensions and speculations, Greenlandic and Danish officials have consistently reiterated their stance that Greenland is not for sale, with Greenland’s Prime Minister Jens-Frederik Nielsen emphasizing the territory’s desire for autonomy and independence from US influence.