Greenlanders Reject Trump’s Renewed Push for U.S. Control of Arctic Island

Greenlanders gathered in Nuuk for the country’s traditional kayaking championship voiced strong opposition to U.S. President Donald Trump’s renewed call for the United States to take control of Greenland, insisting the Arctic island’s future should be determined solely by its own people.

Trump reiterated his interest in acquiring Greenland while speaking at the NATO summit in Ankara, Turkey, arguing that U.S. control of the Danish territory is vital to American national security. His latest remarks revived a long-running debate over the strategically important Arctic island, which remains a self-governing territory within the Kingdom of Denmark.

At Nuuk’s harbor, where competitors showcased traditional kayaking skills by performing challenging rolling techniques in icy waters, spectators criticized Trump’s comments and questioned his motives. Many believed the renewed interest centered on Greenland’s rich reserves of minerals, oil, and other natural resources rather than respect for the wishes of its residents.

Frederik Larsen, a 72-year-old Greenland-born pensioner, said Trump appeared more interested in commodities than the people who call Greenland home. He added that Greenlanders were capable of shaping their own future without outside interference.

Public school teacher Birgithe Geisler echoed that sentiment, emphasizing that Greenland belongs to its people and that no foreign government should decide its future. Hans David Ezekiassen, an instructor at the Greenland Maritime Center, also dismissed Trump’s proposal, arguing that the U.S. president should focus on domestic issues instead of attempting to expand American control abroad.

American engineer Andy Thon, who traveled from the United States to compete in the kayaking championship as a member of Qajaq USA, said Greenland is already progressing toward greater autonomy through its relationship with Denmark. He suggested the United States would not need Greenland as a strategic asset if it maintained stronger relations with its allies.

Trump’s latest remarks also drew swift criticism from Greenlandic and Danish leaders. Greenland Prime Minister Jens-Frederik Nielsen reaffirmed that Greenland is not for sale, stressing that repeated statements from Washington do not alter the island’s right to determine its own future.