Department of Research, Studies and International News13-02-2025

Greenland, a vast, sparsely populated territory known for its icy landscapes and abundant natural resources, has once again become the center of global political discourse. Over recent years, discussions surrounding its potential independence have gained momentum, particularly in light of renewed interest from the United States.

Former and now current US President Donald Trump, renowned for his unconventional approach to diplomacy and deal-making, has rekindled his aspiration to acquire Greenland, a territory that remains semi-autonomous under the Kingdom of Denmark. His rationale for such an acquisition stems from both strategic and economic considerations, especially as geopolitical rivalries intensify in the Arctic region.

Trump first made headlines in 2019 when he proposed purchasing Greenland, presenting the idea as a straightforward real estate transaction. At the time, the suggestion was met with swift rejection from both Greenlandic and Danish authorities. Now, during his second term in office in 2025, Trump has once again asserted his interest in the island, citing national security concerns and growing competition from China and Russia.

The Trump Administration’s PR Campaign in Greenland

In an attempt to shape public opinion in favor of US acquisition, Donald Trump Jr. recently traveled to Greenland, arriving in his father’s private jet. His visit was brief but carefully orchestrated, with local reports suggesting that some Greenlanders were pressured into making statements on camera that painted the island as impoverished and in need of American intervention.

Professor Birger Poppel, an expert in Greenlandic society and politics, to analyze the implications of this visit and assess Greenlanders’ attitudes toward the US.

“Trump Jr.’s trip was essentially a promotional event aimed at selling the idea that Greenland would be better off under US governance,” Poppel explained. “His team arrived in advance, distributing ‘Make America Great Again’ hats and persuading locals to participate in staged receptions.”

A significant portion of his visit included a well-publicized lunch at a high-end restaurant, where disadvantaged Greenlanders were invited for a free meal. However, according to Poppel, the event was less about goodwill and more about political messaging, designed to create a misleading narrative of widespread support for US intervention.

What Do Greenlanders Actually Want?

Contrary to Trump Jr.’s portrayal of Greenlanders longing for American governance, recent opinion polls tell a different story. A survey revealed that 85% of Greenlanders oppose leaving the Danish Realm to join the United States. When asked about their preference between Danish and American citizenship, 55% opted for Danish nationality, while only 8% chose US citizenship.

Beyond Trump’s rhetoric, the broader geopolitical landscape is shifting. The Arctic, once considered an isolated and politically low-tension region, is now at the forefront of global power struggles. Melting ice has facilitated increased maritime activity, raising concerns over security, environmental risks, and resource exploitation.

China and Russia have shown heightened interest in the region, with Russia modernizing its Arctic military installations and China investing in potential trade routes. The US, in response, has justified its growing military presence in the Arctic as a countermeasure to these developments.

US Secretary of State Marco Rubio recently pointed to China’s alleged interest in establishing port facilities in Greenland as a security threat. He argued that US acquisition of Greenland would serve as a strategic advantage in countering Chinese influence.

Denmark’s Response to US Pressure

Trump’s insistence on acquiring Greenland has sent shockwaves through Europe, with Denmark now reassessing its security priorities in the Arctic. While Danish authorities had previously allocated funds for improving surveillance and defense capabilities in Greenland, political inaction meant that little progress had been made.

Now, faced with renewed US pressure, Denmark is working to enhance its monitoring efforts. Greenlandic leaders have long called for better security measures to protect their territory from external influences, but progress has been slow. The US already operates the Pituffik Space Base (formerly Thule Air Base) in Greenland, which plays a key role in missile warning systems and satellite communications. However, the possibility of Washington seeking additional bases or expanded military agreements remains a contentious issue.