Thousands of Danes and Greenlanders protest Trump’s statements about acquiring Greenland, with Greenland’s prime minister leading demonstrations in Nuuk.
Protests in Copenhagen and Other Danish Cities
On Saturday, January 17, protests against US President Donald Trump’s statements regarding Greenland took place in many Danish cities. The largest demonstration occurred in Copenhagen, where organizers reported over 20,000 people took to the streets. Protesters gathered at city hall before marching to the US Embassy. Participants chanted slogans including “Greenland is not for sale,” “No means no,” and “Hands off Greenland.” Some demonstrators wore red caps similar to those associated with “Make America Great Again” but with the inscription “Make America Go Away.”
Protests Also in Greenland, Led by Prime Minister
Simultaneously, demonstrations occurred in Nuuk, Greenland’s capital. Hundreds of people carrying Greenlandic flags marched through the streets toward the US consulate. The protests were led by Greenland’s Prime Minister Jens-Frederik Nielsen. Demonstrants passed a newly built complex where the US consulate will be relocated in the future. The current facility occupies a small building and employs four people.
Democracy and Human Rights
The Danish protests were organized by the Greenlandic association Uagut. Representatives emphasized that the demonstrations were not solely about territorial issues. “The aim is to send a clear and unified message about respect for democracy and basic human rights in Greenland,” stated the organization. Julie Rademacher, chair of Uagut, thanked for the scale of support: “We are very grateful for the enormous support we receive as Greenlanders. We are also sending a signal to the world that it’s time to wake up.” Protests also took place in Aarhus, Aalborg, and Esbjerg, with further demonstrations announced in Canada.
Trump Again Discusses Taking Over Greenland
Donald Trump continues to emphasize that Greenland is strategically important for US security due to its location and natural resources. In 2019, he suggested the possibility of “buying” the island from Denmark, which was firmly rejected by Copenhagen. After winning the 2024 presidential election, Trump returned to this topic. In recent weeks, he did not rule out using force to gain control of the island. White House spokeswoman Karoline Leavitt confirmed that the administration is considering various scenarios, including military action.
Diplomatic Crisis
Trump’s statements have caused serious diplomatic tensions between the US and Denmark, both NATO member states. Denmark, which requested additional military personnel be sent to Greenland in recent days, emphasizes that the country’s territorial integrity is not negotiable. Danish Prime Minister Mette Frederiksen previously warned that any use of force by the US could mean the end of NATO in its current form.
Greenland Between Denmark and the US
Greenland has approximately 57,000 residents and has enjoyed broad autonomy since 1979 while remaining part of the Kingdom of Denmark. Copenhagen, however, is responsible for the island’s defense and foreign policy and finances a significant portion of its administration. All parties in the Greenlandic parliament support independence, though they differ on the pace of this process. Recent politicians have consistently emphasized that in the current situation, they prefer to remain part of Denmark rather than become part of the United States.
