Greenland, the world’s largest island, sits in the Arctic, home to only 56,000 people, mostly indigenous Inuit. Despite being geographically part of North America, it’s been under Denmark’s control for over 300 years, although it gained self-rule in 1979. The island’s economy heavily depends on fishing and Danish subsidies, but its natural resources, including rare earth minerals, have drawn global interest, especially with the threat of climate change making them more accessible.
The U.S. has long viewed Greenland as strategically important due to its military significance. During World War II, the U.S. established bases there, including Pituffik Space Base, which is still critical for U.S. defense against potential threats, particularly from Russia. Over the years, multiple U.S. presidents, including Donald Trump, have shown interest in acquiring the island, seeing it as vital for national security and economic reasons, especially for mining rare minerals.
Trump’s 2019 attempt to purchase Greenland was rejected by both Denmark and Greenland’s government. Many Greenlanders, like Kuno Fencker, who advocates for independence, view the proposal with skepticism. Some, like former Prime Minister Aleqa Hammond, felt insulted by Trump’s approach, which bypassed Greenlanders entirely. The idea of being treated as property to be bought left many feeling offended, making clear that Greenlanders prefer autonomy over foreign intervention. Despite the push for full control, Greenland’s people remain firm in their stance on their sovereignty.
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